1976 Mini MK III vs. 1997 Volvo V90
To start off, 1997 Volvo V90 is newer by 21 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 2,922 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Volvo V90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo V90 (178 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1976 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo V90 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo V90 weights approximately 1005 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 1997 Volvo V90 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 1997 Volvo V90. 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, 1997 Volvo V90 (260 Nm @ 4350 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1997 Volvo V90 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 | 1997 Volvo V90 | |
| Make | Mini | Volvo |
| Model | MK III | V90 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 2922 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 4350 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1450 mm |
