1980 Mini MK IV vs. 1970 AC 428
To start off, 1980 Mini MK IV is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 AC 428. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 AC 428 would be higher. At 7,003 cc (8 cylinders), 1970 AC 428 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 AC 428 (298 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 264 more horse power than 1980 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 AC 428 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 AC 428 weights approximately 820 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 1970 AC 428 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 1970 AC 428. 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, 1970 AC 428 (640 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 579 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1970 AC 428 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mini MK IV. 1970 AC 428 has automatic transmission and 1980 Mini MK IV has manual transmission. 1980 Mini MK IV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1970 AC 428 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mini MK IV | 1970 AC 428 | |
| Make | Mini | AC |
| Model | MK IV | 428 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 7003 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 298 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 640 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2450 mm |
