1974 Mini MK III vs. 1980 Simca 1309
To start off, 1980 Simca 1309 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mini MK III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mini MK III would be higher. At 1,592 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Simca 1309 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Simca 1309 (87 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1974 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Simca 1309 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Simca 1309 weights approximately 500 kg more than 1974 Mini MK III. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1980 Simca 1309 (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1980 Simca 1309 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mini MK III. 1980 Simca 1309 has automatic transmission and 1974 Mini MK III has manual transmission. 1974 Mini MK III will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Simca 1309 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mini MK III | 1980 Simca 1309 | |
| Make | Mini | Simca |
| Model | MK III | 1309 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1592 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2610 mm |
