1980 Mini MK IV vs. 1961 Tatra T603
To start off, 1980 Mini MK IV is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Tatra T603. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Tatra T603 would be higher. At 2,545 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 Tatra T603 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Tatra T603 (94 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1980 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Tatra T603 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Tatra T603 weights approximately 860 kg more than 1980 Mini MK IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Tatra T603 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 1961 Tatra T603. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 1961 Tatra T603 (159 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1961 Tatra T603 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mini MK IV | 1961 Tatra T603 | |
| Make | Mini | Tatra |
| Model | MK IV | T603 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 2545 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 159 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2760 mm |
