1980 Mini MK IV vs. 1977 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 1980 Mini MK IV is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 1,639 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Chrysler 1609 (90 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1980 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 480 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 1977 Chrysler 1609 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 1977 Chrysler 1609. 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, 1977 Chrysler 1609 (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1977 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mini MK IV. 1977 Chrysler 1609 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. 1977 Chrysler 1609 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mini MK IV | 1977 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Mini | Chrysler |
| Model | MK IV | 1609 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 1639 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2670 mm |
