1991 Mini MK VI vs. 1977 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 1991 Mini MK VI is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Triumph Spitfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Triumph Spitfire would be higher. At 1,492 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Triumph Spitfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mini MK VI (96 HP @ 6130 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1977 Triumph Spitfire. (56 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mini MK VI should accelerate faster than 1977 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Triumph Spitfire weights approximately 80 kg more than 1991 Mini MK VI.
Because 1977 Triumph Spitfire 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 1977 Triumph Spitfire. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Mini MK VI, 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 Mini MK VI (116 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Triumph Spitfire. (100 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 Mini MK VI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mini MK VI | 1977 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Mini | Triumph |
| Model | MK VI | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6130 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2650 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 735 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2110 mm |
