1996 Audi A3 vs. 1972 Mini MK III
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mini MK III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mini MK III would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1972 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 530 kg more than 1972 Mini MK III. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Audi A3 (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mini MK III.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1972 Mini MK III | |
| Make | Audi | Mini |
| Model | A3 | MK III |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2040 mm |
