1969 Fiat 500 vs. 1983 Mini MK IV
To start off, 1983 Mini MK IV is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 847 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Mini MK IV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Mini MK IV (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1969 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Mini MK IV should accelerate faster than 1969 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Mini MK IV weights approximately 100 kg more than 1969 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 Fiat 500 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 1969 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Mini MK IV, 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, 1983 Mini MK IV (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Fiat 500. (27 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1983 Mini MK IV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Fiat 500 | 1983 Mini MK IV | |
| Make | Fiat | Mini |
| Model | 500 | MK IV |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 847 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 27 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3030 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2040 mm |
