1997 GMC Safari vs. 1981 Mini MK IV
To start off, 1997 GMC Safari is newer by 16 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 4,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 GMC Safari is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 GMC Safari (187 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1981 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 GMC Safari should accelerate faster than 1981 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 GMC Safari weights approximately 1345 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.
Because 1997 GMC Safari 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 GMC Safari. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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 GMC Safari (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 277 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1997 GMC Safari will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mini MK IV. 1997 GMC Safari has automatic transmission and 1981 Mini MK IV has manual transmission. 1981 Mini MK IV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 GMC Safari will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 GMC Safari | 1981 Mini MK IV | |
| Make | GMC | Mini |
| Model | Safari | MK IV |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2040 mm |
