2005 Cadillac XLR vs. 1978 Mini MK IV
To start off, 2005 Cadillac XLR is newer by 27 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 4,564 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Cadillac XLR (322 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 288 more horse power than 1978 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1978 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 1044 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 2005 Cadillac XLR 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 2005 Cadillac XLR. 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, 2005 Cadillac XLR (420 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 359 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2005 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mini MK IV. 2005 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1978 Mini MK IV has manual transmission. 1978 Mini MK IV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Cadillac XLR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Cadillac XLR | 1978 Mini MK IV | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mini |
| Model | XLR | MK IV |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4564 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 322 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1654 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2040 mm |
