1971 Mini MK III vs. 1971 Volkswagen 181
To start off, both 1971 Mini MK III and 1971 Volkswagen 181 were released in the same year (1971). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Volkswagen 181 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Volkswagen 181 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1971 Mini MK III.
Because 1971 Volkswagen 181 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 Volkswagen 181. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mini MK III | 1971 Volkswagen 181 | |
| Make | Mini | Volkswagen |
| Model | MK III | 181 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 0 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2410 mm |
