1995 BMW 317 vs. 1961 Mini MK I
To start off, 1995 BMW 317 is newer by 34 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 1,665 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 BMW 317 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW 317 (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1961 Mini MK I. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW 317 should accelerate faster than 1961 Mini MK I. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW 317 weights approximately 600 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 1995 BMW 317 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 1995 BMW 317. 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, 1995 BMW 317 (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Mini MK I. (60 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1995 BMW 317 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Mini MK I.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW 317 | 1961 Mini MK I | |
| Make | BMW | Mini |
| Model | 317 | MK I |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 847 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 60 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2040 mm |
