2003 Acura NSX vs. 1980 Mini MK IV
To start off, 2003 Acura NSX is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mini MK IV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mini MK IV would be higher. At 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Acura NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Acura NSX (249 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 215 more horse power than 1980 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 1980 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Acura NSX weights approximately 820 kg more than 1980 Mini MK IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Acura NSX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 2003 Acura NSX (285 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2003 Acura NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mini MK IV. 2003 Acura NSX has automatic transmission and 1980 Mini MK IV has manual transmission. 1980 Mini MK IV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Acura NSX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Acura NSX | 1980 Mini MK IV | |
| Make | Acura | Mini |
| Model | NSX | MK IV |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2977 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 249 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5300 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 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 |
