2004 Mini Cooper vs. 1974 Mini MK III
To start off, 2004 Mini Cooper is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mini MK III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mini MK III would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mini Cooper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mini Cooper (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1974 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1974 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mini Cooper weights approximately 535 kg more than 1974 Mini MK III. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 Mini Cooper (149 Nm) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mini MK III. (61 Nm). This means 2004 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mini MK III.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mini Cooper | 1974 Mini MK III | |
| Make | Mini | Mini |
| Model | Cooper | MK III |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 847 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2040 mm |
