1973 Mini MK III vs. 1987 Skoda Rapid R
To start off, 1987 Skoda Rapid R is newer by 14 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 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Skoda Rapid R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Skoda Rapid R (62 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1973 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Skoda Rapid R should accelerate faster than 1973 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Skoda Rapid R weights approximately 238 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 1987 Skoda Rapid R 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 1987 Skoda Rapid R. 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, 1987 Skoda Rapid R (99 Nm @ 2850 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1987 Skoda Rapid R 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 | 1987 Skoda Rapid R | |
| Make | Mini | Skoda |
| Model | MK III | Rapid R |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 1289 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 | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 99 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 2850 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 612 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2410 mm |
