1976 Mini MK III vs. 1979 Volvo 260
To start off, 1979 Volvo 260 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mini MK III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mini MK III would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Volvo 260 (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1976 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Volvo 260 weights approximately 740 kg more than 1976 Mini MK III. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Volvo 260 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 1979 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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, 1979 Volvo 260 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1979 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mini MK III.
Compare all specifications:
1976 Mini MK III | 1979 Volvo 260 | |
Make | Mini | Volvo |
Model | MK III | 260 |
Year Released | 1976 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 848 cc | 2664 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 34 HP | 146 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 61 Nm | 218 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4890 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2660 mm |