1981 Mini MK IV vs. 1983 Opel Rekord
To start off, 1983 Opel Rekord is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mini MK IV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mini MK IV would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Opel Rekord (90 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1981 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Opel Rekord should accelerate faster than 1981 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Opel Rekord weights approximately 505 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 1983 Opel Rekord 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 1983 Opel Rekord. 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, 1983 Opel Rekord (146 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1983 Opel Rekord 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 | 1983 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Mini | Opel |
| Model | MK IV | Rekord |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2680 mm |
