1973 Mini MK III vs. 1978 Seat 131
To start off, 1978 Seat 131 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mini MK III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mini MK III would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Seat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Seat 131 (53 HP) has 19 more horse power than 1973 Mini MK III. (34 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Seat 131 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Seat 131 weights approximately 353 kg more than 1973 Mini MK III. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Seat 131 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 1978 Seat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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, 1978 Seat 131 (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1978 Seat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mini MK III.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mini MK III | 1978 Seat 131 | |
| Make | Mini | Seat |
| Model | MK III | 131 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 612 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2500 mm |
