1981 Mini MK IV vs. 1970 Opel Manta
To start off, 1981 Mini MK IV is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Opel Manta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Opel Manta would be higher. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Opel Manta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Opel Manta (67 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1981 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Opel Manta should accelerate faster than 1981 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Opel Manta weights approximately 335 kg more than 1981 Mini MK IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Opel Manta 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 1970 Opel Manta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1970 Opel Manta (108 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1970 Opel Manta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mini MK IV | 1970 Opel Manta | |
| Make | Mini | Opel |
| Model | MK IV | Manta |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2440 mm |
