1981 Mini MK IV vs. 1987 Ford Fairlane
To start off, 1987 Ford Fairlane is newer by 6 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 4,088 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Ford Fairlane (137 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1981 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Ford Fairlane should accelerate faster than 1981 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 1020 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 1987 Ford Fairlane 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 1987 Ford Fairlane. 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, 1987 Ford Fairlane (304 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 243 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1987 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mini MK IV. 1987 Ford Fairlane has automatic transmission and 1981 Mini MK IV has manual transmission. 1981 Mini MK IV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1987 Ford Fairlane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mini MK IV | 1987 Ford Fairlane | |
| Make | Mini | Ford |
| Model | MK IV | Fairlane |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 4088 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 137 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 5020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2950 mm |
