1976 Mini MK IV vs. 1980 Opel Ascona
To start off, 1980 Opel Ascona is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mini MK IV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mini MK IV would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Opel Ascona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Opel Ascona (57 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1976 Mini MK IV. (38 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Opel Ascona should accelerate faster than 1976 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Opel Ascona weights approximately 395 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 1980 Opel Ascona 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 1980 Opel Ascona. 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, 1980 Opel Ascona (110 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mini MK IV. (72 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1980 Opel Ascona 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 | 1980 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Mini | Opel |
| Model | MK IV | Ascona |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 998 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 72 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 615 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2610 mm |
