1976 Mini MK IV vs. 1990 Volvo 960
To start off, 1990 Volvo 960 is newer by 14 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 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Volvo 960 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Volvo 960 (187 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1976 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Volvo 960 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Volvo 960 weights approximately 920 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 1990 Volvo 960 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 1990 Volvo 960. 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, 1990 Volvo 960 (263 Nm) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm). This means 1990 Volvo 960 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 | 1990 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Mini | Volvo |
| Model | MK IV | 960 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1990 |
| 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 | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 263 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2780 mm |
