1973 Mini MK III vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 35 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 2,771 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1973 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1973 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 738 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 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Mini MK III. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mini | Volkswagen |
| Model | MK III | Passat |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 2771 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 612 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2710 mm |
