2001 BMW 320 vs. 1978 Mini MK IV
To start off, 2001 BMW 320 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mini MK IV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mini MK IV would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1978 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 320 weights approximately 860 kg more than 1978 Mini MK IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 BMW 320 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 2001 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 2001 BMW 320 (355 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 294 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2001 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 320 | 1978 Mini MK IV | |
| Make | BMW | Mini |
| Model | 320 | MK IV |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2040 mm |
