1973 Fiat 500 vs. 1975 Mini MK I
To start off, 1975 Mini MK I is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,098 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Mini MK I is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Mini MK I (48 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Mini MK I should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Mini MK I weights approximately 140 kg more than 1973 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Fiat 500 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 1973 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 Mini MK I, 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, 1975 Mini MK I (81 Nm @ 2450 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 500. (27 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1975 Mini MK I will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 500 | 1975 Mini MK I | |
| Make | Fiat | Mini |
| Model | 500 | MK I |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 1098 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 48 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 27 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2450 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2040 mm |
