1997 Acura NSX vs. 1976 Mini MK IV
To start off, 1997 Acura NSX is newer by 21 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 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Acura NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Acura NSX (272 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 1976 Mini MK IV. (59 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 1976 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Acura NSX weights approximately 725 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 1997 Acura NSX 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 1997 Acura NSX. 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, 1997 Acura NSX (284 Nm @ 5400 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mini MK IV. (94 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Acura NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Acura NSX | 1976 Mini MK IV | |
| Make | Acura | Mini |
| Model | NSX | MK IV |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2977 cc | 1275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 272 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 284 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 645 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2040 mm |
