1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 1981 Mini MK IV
To start off, 1991 Caterham Super 7 is newer by 10 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 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Caterham Super 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Caterham Super 7 (84 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1981 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mini MK IV weights approximately 100 kg more than 1991 Caterham Super 7.
Because 1991 Caterham Super 7 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 1991 Caterham Super 7. 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, 1991 Caterham Super 7 (124 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1991 Caterham Super 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Caterham Super 7 | 1981 Mini MK IV | |
| Make | Caterham | Mini |
| Model | Super 7 | MK IV |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 84 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2040 mm |
