1989 Lexus LS vs. 1981 Mini MK IV
To start off, 1989 Lexus LS is newer by 8 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 3,969 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lexus LS (242 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 208 more horse power than 1981 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 1981 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lexus LS weights approximately 1208 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 1989 Lexus LS 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 1989 Lexus LS. 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, 1989 Lexus LS (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 289 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1989 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mini MK IV. 1989 Lexus LS 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. 1989 Lexus LS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lexus LS | 1981 Mini MK IV | |
| Make | Lexus | Mini |
| Model | LS | MK IV |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3969 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1818 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2040 mm |
