1980 Mini MK IV vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1980 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1980 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 655 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Volkswagen Golf (220 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mini MK IV. 1997 Volkswagen Golf 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. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Mini MK IV | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mini | Volkswagen |
Model | MK IV | Golf |
Year Released | 1980 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 848 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 34 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 61 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1265 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2520 mm |