1969 Mini MK III vs. 1973 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 1973 Volkswagen 1600 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Mini MK III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Mini MK III would be higher. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Volkswagen 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Mini MK III (59 HP) has 6 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Mini MK III should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Volkswagen 1600 weights approximately 390 kg more than 1969 Mini MK III.
Because 1973 Volkswagen 1600 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 1973 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 Mini MK III, 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, 1973 Volkswagen 1600 (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Mini MK III. (94 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1973 Volkswagen 1600 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Mini MK III.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Mini MK III | 1973 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Mini | Volkswagen |
| Model | MK III | 1600 |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1274 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 645 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2340 mm |
