1974 Mini MK III vs. 2012 Fiat 500
To start off, 2012 Fiat 500 is newer by 38 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 1,368 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Fiat 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Fiat 500 (101 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1974 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Fiat 500 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Fiat 500 weights approximately 486 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, 2012 Fiat 500 (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2012 Fiat 500 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 | 2012 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Mini | Fiat |
| Model | MK III | 500 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1368 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1096 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 3546 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1628 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1519 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2301 mm |
