1978 Mini MK IV vs. 1961 Alfa Romeo 2600
To start off, 1978 Mini MK IV is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Alfa Romeo 2600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Alfa Romeo 2600 would be higher. At 2,583 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Alfa Romeo 2600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Alfa Romeo 2600 (163 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1978 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Alfa Romeo 2600 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Alfa Romeo 2600 weights approximately 760 kg more than 1978 Mini MK IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Alfa Romeo 2600 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 1961 Alfa Romeo 2600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1961 Alfa Romeo 2600 (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1961 Alfa Romeo 2600 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mini MK IV | 1961 Alfa Romeo 2600 | |
| Make | Mini | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | MK IV | 2600 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 2583 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2510 mm |
