1979 Mini MK IV vs. 1997 Renault Spider
To start off, 1997 Renault Spider is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mini MK IV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mini MK IV would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Renault Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Renault Spider (140 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1979 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Renault Spider should accelerate faster than 1979 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Renault Spider weights approximately 380 kg more than 1979 Mini MK IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Renault Spider 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 1997 Renault Spider. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1997 Renault Spider (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1997 Renault Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mini MK IV | 1997 Renault Spider | |
| Make | Mini | Renault |
| Model | MK IV | Spider |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2350 mm |
