1963 Fiat 1500 vs. 1979 Mini MK IV
To start off, 1979 Mini MK IV is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Fiat 1500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Fiat 1500 would be higher. At 1,481 cc (4 cylinders), 1963 Fiat 1500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1963 Fiat 1500 (74 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1979 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1963 Fiat 1500 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1963 Fiat 1500 weights approximately 615 kg more than 1979 Mini MK IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 Fiat 1500 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1963 Fiat 1500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Mini MK IV, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1963 Fiat 1500 (106 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1963 Fiat 1500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Fiat 1500 | 1979 Mini MK IV | |
| Make | Fiat | Mini |
| Model | 1500 | MK IV |
| Year Released | 1963 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1481 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2040 mm |
