1996 Ford Escort vs. 1981 Mini MK IV
To start off, 1996 Ford Escort is newer by 15 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 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Escort (131 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1981 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1981 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Escort weights approximately 542 kg more than 1981 Mini MK IV. 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 Ford Escort (172 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 1981 Mini MK IV | |
| Make | Ford | Mini |
| Model | Escort | MK IV |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1152 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2040 mm |
