1981 Mini MK IV vs. 2004 Volvo V50
To start off, 2004 Volvo V50 is newer by 23 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo V50 (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 1981 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo V50 weights approximately 820 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 2004 Volvo V50 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, 2004 Volvo V50 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, 2004 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 259 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo V50 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 | 2004 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Mini | Volvo |
| Model | MK IV | V50 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2670 mm |
