1974 Fiat 124 vs. 1979 Mini MK IV
To start off, 1979 Mini MK IV is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,197 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Fiat 124 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Fiat 124 (59 HP) has 25 more horse power than 1979 Mini MK IV. (34 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Fiat 124 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Fiat 124 weights approximately 300 kg more than 1979 Mini MK IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Fiat 124 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 1974 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Mini MK IV, 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, 1974 Fiat 124 (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1974 Fiat 124 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 124 | 1979 Mini MK IV | |
| Make | Fiat | Mini |
| Model | 124 | MK IV |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 34 HP |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2040 mm |
