1977 Mini MK IV vs. 1973 Volkswagen 1302
To start off, 1977 Mini MK IV is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen 1302. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen 1302 would be higher. At 1,191 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Volkswagen 1302 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Mini MK IV (44 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen 1302. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Mini MK IV should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen 1302. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Volkswagen 1302 weights approximately 105 kg more than 1977 Mini MK IV.
Because 1973 Volkswagen 1302 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 1973 Volkswagen 1302. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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, 1973 Volkswagen 1302 (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mini MK IV. (76 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1973 Volkswagen 1302 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Mini MK IV | 1973 Volkswagen 1302 | |
| Make | Mini | Volkswagen |
| Model | MK IV | 1302 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1191 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 76 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 645 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2410 mm |
