1998 Mini MK VII vs. 1980 Volkswagen Golf
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 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,275 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mini MK VII is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mini MK VII (96 HP @ 6130 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mini MK VII should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 15 kg more than 1998 Mini MK VII.
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, 1998 Mini MK VII (115 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mini MK VII will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mini MK VII | 1980 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mini | Volkswagen |
| Model | MK VII | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6130 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 79 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2650 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 735 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2410 mm |
