1971 Mini MK III vs. 1974 Opel Rekord
To start off, 1974 Opel Rekord is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mini MK III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mini MK III would be higher. At 1,698 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Opel Rekord (66 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1971 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Opel Rekord should accelerate faster than 1971 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Opel Rekord weights approximately 455 kg more than 1971 Mini MK III. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Opel Rekord 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 1974 Opel Rekord. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1974 Opel Rekord (120 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1974 Opel Rekord will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mini MK III.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mini MK III | 1974 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Mini | Opel |
| Model | MK III | Rekord |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2680 mm |
