1980 Mini MK IV vs. 2007 Alpina D3
To start off, 2007 Alpina D3 is newer by 27 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 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Alpina D3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Alpina D3 (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 267 more horse power than 1980 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Alpina D3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Alpina D3 weights approximately 840 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 2007 Alpina D3 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 2007 Alpina D3. 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, 2007 Alpina D3 (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 301 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2007 Alpina D3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mini MK IV. 2007 Alpina D3 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. 2007 Alpina D3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mini MK IV | 2007 Alpina D3 | |
| Make | Mini | Alpina |
| Model | MK IV | D3 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 3346 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 301 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 362 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2730 mm |
