1981 Mini MK IV vs. 2008 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan 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 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Sharan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1981 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1981 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 1096 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Sharan (320 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 259 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Sharan 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Mini | Volkswagen |
| Model | MK IV | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1706 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2850 mm |
