1977 Mini MK IV vs. 1978 Volvo 260
To start off, 1978 Volvo 260 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mini MK IV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mini MK IV would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Volvo 260 (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1977 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 1977 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volvo 260 weights approximately 740 kg more than 1977 Mini MK IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Volvo 260 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 1978 Volvo 260. 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, 1978 Volvo 260 (219 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1978 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mini MK IV. 1978 Volvo 260 has automatic transmission and 1977 Mini MK IV has manual transmission. 1977 Mini MK IV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Volvo 260 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Mini MK IV | 1978 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Mini | Volvo |
| Model | MK IV | 260 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2660 mm |
