1978 Mini MK IV vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mini MK IV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mini MK IV would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (116 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1978 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1978 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 674 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mini | Volkswagen |
| Model | MK IV | Golf |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2520 mm |
