1998 Mini MK VII vs. 1980 Seat 131
To start off, 1998 Mini MK VII is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Seat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Seat 131 would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Seat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mini MK VII (96 HP) has 43 more horse power than 1980 Seat 131. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mini MK VII should accelerate faster than 1980 Seat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Seat 131 weights approximately 230 kg more than 1998 Mini MK VII.
Because 1980 Seat 131 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 1980 Seat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mini MK VII, 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, 1998 Mini MK VII (115 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Seat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1998 Mini MK VII will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Seat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mini MK VII | 1980 Seat 131 | |
| Make | Mini | Seat |
| Model | MK VII | 131 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2650 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 735 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2500 mm |
