1974 Mini MK III vs. 1986 Volvo 740
To start off, 1986 Volvo 740 is newer by 12 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 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Volvo 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Volvo 740 (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1974 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Volvo 740 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Volvo 740 weights approximately 720 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.
Because 1986 Volvo 740 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 1986 Volvo 740. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1986 Volvo 740 (239 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1986 Volvo 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mini MK III.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mini MK III | 1986 Volvo 740 | |
| Make | Mini | Volvo |
| Model | MK III | 740 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 239 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2780 mm |
