1978 Mini MK IV vs. 1977 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1978 Mini MK IV is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,196 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Opel Kadett is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Opel Kadett (51 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1978 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Opel Kadett should accelerate faster than 1978 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Opel Kadett weights approximately 210 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 1977 Opel Kadett 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 1977 Opel Kadett. 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, 1977 Opel Kadett (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1977 Opel Kadett 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 | 1977 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Mini | Opel |
| Model | MK IV | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2410 mm |
