1978 Austin Marina vs. 1997 Mini MK VII
To start off, 1997 Mini MK VII is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Austin Marina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Austin Marina would be higher. Both 1978 Austin Marina and 1997 Mini MK VII are equipped with a 1,275 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mini MK VII (96 HP @ 6130 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1978 Austin Marina. (59 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mini MK VII should accelerate faster than 1978 Austin Marina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Austin Marina weights approximately 147 kg more than 1997 Mini MK VII.
Because 1978 Austin Marina 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 Austin Marina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mini MK VII, 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, 1997 Mini MK VII (115 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Austin Marina. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Mini MK VII will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Austin Marina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Austin Marina | 1997 Mini MK VII | |
| Make | Austin | Mini |
| Model | Marina | MK VII |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6130 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 882 kg | 735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2040 mm |
