1976 Mini MK III vs. 2012 Audi A1
To start off, 2012 Audi A1 is newer by 36 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A1 (104 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1976 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A1 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A1 weights approximately 430 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.
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 Audi A1 (250 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A1 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 | 2012 Audi A1 | |
| Make | Mini | Audi |
| Model | MK III | A1 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 3954 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1416 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2469 mm |
