1966 Mini MK I vs. 1996 Volvo 960
To start off, 1996 Volvo 960 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Mini MK I. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Mini MK I would be higher. At 2,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 960 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo 960 (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1966 Mini MK I. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 960 should accelerate faster than 1966 Mini MK I. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 960 weights approximately 885 kg more than 1966 Mini MK I. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Volvo 960 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 1996 Volvo 960. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 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, 1996 Volvo 960 (233 Nm @ 4550 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Mini MK I. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 960 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Mini MK I.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Mini MK I | 1996 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Mini | Volvo |
| Model | MK I | 960 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 2472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 4550 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 615 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2780 mm |
