1981 Mini MK IV vs. 2010 Lotus Exige
To start off, 2010 Lotus Exige is newer by 29 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 1,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Lotus Exige is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Lotus Exige (425 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 391 more horse power than 1981 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1981 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Lotus Exige weights approximately 1381 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 2010 Lotus Exige 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 2010 Lotus Exige. 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, 2010 Lotus Exige (489 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 428 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2010 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mini MK IV. 2010 Lotus Exige 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. 2010 Lotus Exige will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Mini MK IV | 2010 Lotus Exige | |
Make | Mini | Lotus |
Model | MK IV | Exige |
Year Released | 1981 | 2010 |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 848 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 34 HP | 425 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 61 Nm | 489 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 4750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1991 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 5098 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1895 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1438 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 3063 mm |