1971 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1978 Mini MK IV
To start off, 1978 Mini MK IV is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 1,962 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider (131 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1978 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1978 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 430 kg more than 1978 Mini MK IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider 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 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider (190 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1978 Mini MK IV | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mini |
Model | Spider | MK IV |
Year Released | 1971 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1962 cc | 848 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 131 HP | 34 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 61 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 610 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 3060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1420 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2040 mm |