1981 Lada 1200 vs. 1998 Rover Mini
To start off, 1998 Rover Mini is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lada 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lada 1200 would be higher. At 1,275 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Rover Mini is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Rover Mini (62 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1981 Lada 1200. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Rover Mini should accelerate faster than 1981 Lada 1200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Lada 1200 weights approximately 249 kg more than 1998 Rover Mini.
Because 1981 Lada 1200 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 Lada 1200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Rover Mini, 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, 1998 Rover Mini (94 Nm) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lada 1200. (85 Nm). This means 1998 Rover Mini will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lada 1200.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lada 1200 | 1998 Rover Mini | |
| Make | Lada | Rover |
| Model | 1200 | Mini |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1198 cc | 1275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 696 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2750 mm |
