1981 Mini MK IV vs. 1990 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1990 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 9 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Volkswagen Passat (157 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1981 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1981 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 735 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 1990 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Mini MK IV. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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, 1990 Volkswagen Passat (225 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1990 Volkswagen Passat 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 | 1990 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mini | Volkswagen |
| Model | MK IV | Passat |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2630 mm |
