1978 Austin Marina vs. 2002 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2002 Mini Cooper is newer by 24 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. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mini Cooper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mini Cooper (163 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1978 Austin Marina. (59 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1978 Austin Marina.
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, 2002 Mini Cooper, 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, 2002 Mini Cooper (210 Nm) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Austin Marina. (102 Nm). This means 2002 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Austin Marina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Austin Marina | 2002 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | Austin | Mini |
| Model | Marina | Cooper |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2470 mm |
