1966 Datsun 1000 vs. 1979 Innocenti Mini
To start off, 1979 Innocenti Mini is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Datsun 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Datsun 1000 would be higher. At 997 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Innocenti Mini is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Datsun 1000 (61 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1979 Innocenti Mini. (48 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Datsun 1000 should accelerate faster than 1979 Innocenti Mini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Innocenti Mini weights approximately 95 kg more than 1966 Datsun 1000.
Because 1966 Datsun 1000 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 1966 Datsun 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Innocenti Mini, 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, 1966 Datsun 1000 (84 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Innocenti Mini. (69 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1966 Datsun 1000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Innocenti Mini.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Datsun 1000 | 1979 Innocenti Mini | |
| Make | Datsun | Innocenti |
| Model | 1000 | Mini |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 988 cc | 997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 61 HP | 48 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 69 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 64.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 59 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 625 kg | 720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 3170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2050 mm |
