1980 Alpine A 310 vs. 1996 Mini MK VII
To start off, 1996 Mini MK VII is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Alpine A 310. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Alpine A 310 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Alpine A 310 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Alpine A 310 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1996 Mini MK VII. (96 HP @ 6130 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Alpine A 310 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mini MK VII. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Alpine A 310 weights approximately 245 kg more than 1996 Mini MK VII. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Alpine A 310 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 1980 Alpine A 310. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mini MK VII, 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, 1980 Alpine A 310 (203 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mini MK VII. (115 Nm @ 2650 RPM). This means 1980 Alpine A 310 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mini MK VII.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Alpine A 310 | 1996 Mini MK VII | |
| Make | Alpine | Mini |
| Model | A 310 | MK VII |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 2664 cc | 1275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6130 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2040 mm |
