1974 Mini MK III vs. 1996 Volvo V40
To start off, 1996 Volvo V40 is newer by 22 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 1,731 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volvo V40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo V40 (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1974 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo V40 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo V40 weights approximately 620 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, 1996 Volvo V40 (164 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo V40 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 | 1996 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | Mini | Volvo |
| Model | MK III | V40 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1731 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2570 mm |
