1976 Mini MK IV vs. 1970 Rover 3.5
To start off, 1976 Mini MK IV is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Rover 3.5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Rover 3.5 would be higher. At 3,532 cc (8 cylinders), 1970 Rover 3.5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Rover 3.5 (149 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1976 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Rover 3.5 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Rover 3.5 weights approximately 1025 kg more than 1976 Mini MK IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Rover 3.5 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 1970 Rover 3.5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Mini MK IV, 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, 1970 Rover 3.5 (276 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1970 Rover 3.5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mini MK IV. 1970 Rover 3.5 has automatic transmission and 1976 Mini MK IV has manual transmission. 1976 Mini MK IV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1970 Rover 3.5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mini MK IV | 1970 Rover 3.5 | |
| Make | Mini | Rover |
| Model | MK IV | 3.5 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 3532 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 276 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2820 mm |
