1970 Lotus Seven vs. 1985 Mini MK V
To start off, 1985 Mini MK V is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,340 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Lotus Seven is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Lotus Seven (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1985 Mini MK V. (41 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Lotus Seven should accelerate faster than 1985 Mini MK V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mini MK V weights approximately 35 kg more than 1970 Lotus Seven.
Because 1970 Lotus Seven 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 1970 Lotus Seven. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Mini MK V, 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, 1970 Lotus Seven (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mini MK V. (70 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1970 Lotus Seven will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mini MK V.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Lotus Seven | 1985 Mini MK V | |
| Make | Lotus | Mini |
| Model | Seven | MK V |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1340 cc | 998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 41 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 70 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 590 kg | 625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2040 mm |
