1988 Mini MK V vs. 1978 Volkswagen 1302
To start off, 1988 Mini MK V is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen 1302. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen 1302 would be higher. At 1,192 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Volkswagen 1302 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mini MK V (41 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen 1302. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mini MK V should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen 1302. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volkswagen 1302 weights approximately 125 kg more than 1988 Mini MK V.
Because 1978 Volkswagen 1302 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 1978 Volkswagen 1302. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Mini MK V, 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, 1978 Volkswagen 1302 (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mini MK V. (70 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1978 Volkswagen 1302 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mini MK V.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mini MK V | 1978 Volkswagen 1302 | |
| Make | Mini | Volkswagen |
| Model | MK V | 1302 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 998 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 70 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 625 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2410 mm |
