1965 Mini MK I vs. 1975 Opel Ascona
To start off, 1975 Opel Ascona is newer by 10 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 1,897 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Opel Ascona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Opel Ascona (90 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1965 Mini MK I. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Opel Ascona should accelerate faster than 1965 Mini MK I. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Opel Ascona weights approximately 375 kg more than 1965 Mini MK I. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 Opel Ascona 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 1975 Opel Ascona. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1965 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, 1975 Opel Ascona (147 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 Mini MK I. (60 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1975 Opel Ascona 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 | 1975 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Mini | Opel |
| Model | MK I | Ascona |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 846 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 615 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2530 mm |
