1979 Mini MK IV vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 24 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1979 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1979 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 550 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.
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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (156 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mini MK IV. 2003 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1979 Mini MK IV has manual transmission. 1979 Mini MK IV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mini MK IV | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mini | Volkswagen |
| Model | MK IV | Golf |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2860 mm |
