1971 Mini MK III vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 26 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 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (115 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1971 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1971 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 550 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (155 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mini | Volkswagen |
| Model | MK III | Golf |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2470 mm |
