2002 Acura NSX vs. 1981 Mini MK IV
To start off, 2002 Acura NSX is newer by 21 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 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Acura NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Acura NSX (286 HP @ 7100 RPM) has 252 more horse power than 1981 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 1981 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Acura NSX weights approximately 842 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 2002 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 2002 Acura NSX. 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, 2002 Acura NSX (304 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 243 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2002 Acura NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Acura NSX | 1981 Mini MK IV | |
| Make | Acura | Mini |
| Model | NSX | MK IV |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 286 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2040 mm |
