1978 Aston Martin V8 Volante vs. 1961 Mini MK I
To start off, 1978 Aston Martin V8 Volante is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Mini MK I. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Mini MK I would be higher. At 5,340 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Aston Martin V8 Volante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Aston Martin V8 Volante (317 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 283 more horse power than 1961 Mini MK I. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Aston Martin V8 Volante should accelerate faster than 1961 Mini MK I. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Aston Martin V8 Volante weights approximately 1199 kg more than 1961 Mini MK I. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Aston Martin V8 Volante 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 Aston Martin V8 Volante. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 Mini MK I, 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 Aston Martin V8 Volante (434 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 374 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Mini MK I. (60 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1978 Aston Martin V8 Volante will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Mini MK I.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Aston Martin V8 Volante | 1961 Mini MK I | |
| Make | Aston Martin | Mini |
| Model | V8 Volante | MK I |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5340 cc | 847 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 434 Nm | 60 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1814 kg | 615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2040 mm |
