1983 Mini MK IV vs. 1979 BMW M1
To start off, 1983 Mini MK IV is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 239 more horse power than 1983 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 1983 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 BMW M1 weights approximately 690 kg more than 1983 Mini MK IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 BMW M1 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 1979 BMW M1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1979 BMW M1 (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 269 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1979 BMW M1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Mini MK IV | 1979 BMW M1 | |
| Make | Mini | BMW |
| Model | MK IV | M1 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2570 mm |
