1965 Mini MK I vs. 1971 Mini MK III
To start off, 1971 Mini MK III is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Mini MK I. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Mini MK I would be higher. At 848 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Mini MK III is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 34 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1965 Mini MK I weights approximately 5 kg more than 1971 Mini MK III.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1971 Mini MK III (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 Mini MK I. (60 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1971 Mini MK III will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 Mini MK I.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Mini MK I | 1971 Mini MK III | |
| Make | Mini | Mini |
| Model | MK I | MK III |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 846 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 615 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2040 mm |
