1963 Mini MK I vs. 1977 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1977 Opel Kadett is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Mini MK I. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Mini MK I would be higher. At 1,979 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Opel Kadett is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Opel Kadett (108 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1963 Mini MK I. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Opel Kadett should accelerate faster than 1963 Mini MK I. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Opel Kadett weights approximately 235 kg more than 1963 Mini MK I. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Opel Kadett 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 1977 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1963 Mini MK I, 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, 1977 Opel Kadett (162 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Mini MK I. (60 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1977 Opel Kadett will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Mini MK I.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Mini MK I | 1977 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Mini | Opel |
| Model | MK I | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1963 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 1979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 615 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2430 mm |
