1972 Mini MK III vs. 2003 Mini One
To start off, 2003 Mini One is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mini MK III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mini MK III would be higher. At 1,364 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mini One is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mini One (74 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1972 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mini One should accelerate faster than 1972 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mini One weights approximately 410 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.
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, 2003 Mini One (180 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2003 Mini One 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 | 2003 Mini One | |
| Make | Mini | Mini |
| Model | MK III | One |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 1364 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2480 mm |
