1974 Mini MK III vs. 1956 Porsche 550 A
To start off, 1974 Mini MK III is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Porsche 550 A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Porsche 550 A would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1956 Porsche 550 A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Porsche 550 A (108 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1974 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1956 Porsche 550 A should accelerate faster than 1974 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mini MK III weights approximately 5 kg more than 1956 Porsche 550 A.
Because 1956 Porsche 550 A 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 1956 Porsche 550 A. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mini MK III | 1956 Porsche 550 A | |
| Make | Mini | Porsche |
| Model | MK III | 550 A |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2110 mm |
