1976 Ford Taunus vs. 1961 Mini MK I
To start off, 1976 Ford Taunus is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Mini MK I. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Mini MK I would be higher. At 1,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Ford Taunus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Ford Taunus (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1961 Mini MK I. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Ford Taunus should accelerate faster than 1961 Mini MK I. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Ford Taunus weights approximately 500 kg more than 1961 Mini MK I. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Ford Taunus 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 1976 Ford Taunus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 Mini MK I, 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, 1976 Ford Taunus (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Mini MK I. (60 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1976 Ford Taunus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Mini MK I.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Taunus | 1961 Mini MK I | |
| Make | Ford | Mini |
| Model | Taunus | MK I |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 847 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 60 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2040 mm |
