1972 Mini MK III vs. 1963 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 1972 Mini MK III is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Triumph Spitfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Triumph Spitfire would be higher. At 1,147 cc (4 cylinders), 1963 Triumph Spitfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1963 Triumph Spitfire (62 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1972 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1963 Triumph Spitfire should accelerate faster than 1972 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1963 Triumph Spitfire weights approximately 95 kg more than 1972 Mini MK III. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 Triumph Spitfire 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 1963 Triumph Spitfire. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 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, 1963 Triumph Spitfire (91 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1963 Triumph Spitfire will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mini MK III.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Mini MK III | 1963 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Mini | Triumph |
| Model | MK III | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 1147 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 91 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2110 mm |
