1985 BMW 324 vs. 1961 Mini MK I
To start off, 1985 BMW 324 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Mini MK I. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Mini MK I would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 BMW 324 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 BMW 324 (85 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1961 Mini MK I. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 BMW 324 should accelerate faster than 1961 Mini MK I. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 BMW 324 weights approximately 645 kg more than 1961 Mini MK I. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 BMW 324 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 1985 BMW 324. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 Mini MK I, 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, 1985 BMW 324 (152 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Mini MK I. (60 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1985 BMW 324 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Mini MK I.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 BMW 324 | 1961 Mini MK I | |
| Make | BMW | Mini |
| Model | 324 | MK I |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 847 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 60 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2040 mm |
