1981 Mini MK IV vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 27 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1981 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1981 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 740 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 2008 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, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (282 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mini MK IV. 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mini MK IV | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mini | Volkswagen |
| Model | MK IV | Passat |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 282 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2720 mm |
