1981 Mini MK IV vs. 2002 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 21 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 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 176 more horse power than 1981 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1981 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1329 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 2002 Ford Explorer 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 2002 Ford Explorer. 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, 2002 Ford Explorer (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 274 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mini MK IV. 2002 Ford Explorer 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. 2002 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mini MK IV | 2002 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Mini | Ford |
| Model | MK IV | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 4009 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 3200 mm |
