1975 Mini MK III vs. 2012 Tata Nano
To start off, 2012 Tata Nano is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Mini MK III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Mini MK III would be higher. At 848 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Mini MK III is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Tata Nano (35 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1975 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Tata Nano should accelerate faster than 1975 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Mini MK III weights approximately 10 kg more than 2012 Tata Nano.
Because 2012 Tata Nano 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 2012 Tata Nano. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 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, 1975 Mini MK III (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Tata Nano. (48 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1975 Mini MK III will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Tata Nano.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Mini MK III | 2012 Tata Nano | |
| Make | Mini | Tata |
| Model | MK III | Nano |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 624 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 35 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 48 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 3099 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1495 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1652 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2230 mm |
