1980 Mini MK IV vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1997 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mini MK IV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mini MK IV would be higher. At 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (198 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1980 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1980 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 930 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 1997 Pontiac Firebird 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 1997 Pontiac Firebird. 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, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 244 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird 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 | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mini | Pontiac |
| Model | MK IV | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 3785 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2570 mm |
