1996 AC Cobra vs. 1976 Mini MK IV
To start off, 1996 AC Cobra is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mini MK IV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mini MK IV would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 AC Cobra (365 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 327 more horse power than 1976 Mini MK IV. (38 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1976 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 AC Cobra weights approximately 411 kg more than 1976 Mini MK IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 AC Cobra 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 1996 AC Cobra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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, 1996 AC Cobra (579 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 507 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mini MK IV. (72 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1996 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 AC Cobra | 1976 Mini MK IV | |
| Make | AC | Mini |
| Model | Cobra | MK IV |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 365 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 579 Nm | 72 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1026 kg | 615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2040 mm |
