1976 Mini MK IV vs. 1971 Volvo P 1800
To start off, 1976 Mini MK IV is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volvo P 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volvo P 1800 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Volvo P 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Volvo P 1800 (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1976 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Volvo P 1800 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Volvo P 1800 weights approximately 510 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 1971 Volvo P 1800 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 1971 Volvo P 1800. 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, 1971 Volvo P 1800 (176 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1971 Volvo P 1800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mini MK IV | 1971 Volvo P 1800 | |
| Make | Mini | Volvo |
| Model | MK IV | P 1800 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2460 mm |
