2004 Caterham 7 vs. 1969 Mini MK III
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Mini MK III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Mini MK III would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1969 Mini MK III. (59 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1969 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Mini MK III weights approximately 175 kg more than 2004 Caterham 7.
Because 2004 Caterham 7 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 2004 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 Mini MK III, 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, 2004 Caterham 7 (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Mini MK III. (94 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Mini MK III.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 1969 Mini MK III | |
| Make | Caterham | Mini |
| Model | 7 | MK III |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1274 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 645 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2040 mm |
