1963 Mini MK I vs. 1980 Renault 5
To start off, 1980 Renault 5 is newer by 17 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 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Renault 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Renault 5 (158 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1963 Mini MK I. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Renault 5 should accelerate faster than 1963 Mini MK I. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Renault 5 weights approximately 355 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 1980 Renault 5 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 1980 Renault 5. 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, 1980 Renault 5 (221 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Mini MK I. (60 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1980 Renault 5 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 | 1980 Renault 5 | |
| Make | Mini | Renault |
| Model | MK I | 5 |
| Year Released | 1963 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 615 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2590 mm |
