1981 Honda Ballade vs. 2009 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2009 Mini Cooper is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Honda Ballade. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Honda Ballade would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mini Cooper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mini Cooper (172 HP) has 105 more horse power than 1981 Honda Ballade. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Ballade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mini Cooper weights approximately 430 kg more than 1981 Honda Ballade. 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, 2009 Mini Cooper (240 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Ballade. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Ballade.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Honda Ballade | 2009 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | Honda | Mini |
| Model | Ballade | Cooper |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1334 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 172 HP |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 85.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2470 mm |
