1981 BMW 528 vs. 1978 Mini MK IV
To start off, 1981 BMW 528 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mini MK IV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mini MK IV would be higher. At 2,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 528 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 528 (181 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1978 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 528 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 528 weights approximately 690 kg more than 1978 Mini MK IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 BMW 528 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 1981 BMW 528. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1981 BMW 528 (240 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 528 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 528 | 1978 Mini MK IV | |
| Make | BMW | Mini |
| Model | 528 | MK IV |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2788 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2040 mm |
