2005 Mazda Marathon vs. 1978 Mini MK IV

To start off, 2005 Mazda Marathon 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 2,260 cc, 2005 Mazda Marathon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda Marathon (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1978 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda Marathon should accelerate faster than 1978 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda Marathon weights approximately 907 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 Mazda Marathon 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 Mazda Marathon. 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 Mazda Marathon (174 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda Marathon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mini MK IV.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Mazda Marathon 1978 Mini MK IV
Make Mazda Mini
Model Marathon MK IV
Year Released 2005 1978
Engine Size 2260 cc 848 cc
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 104 HP 34 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 174 Nm 61 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2900 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Vehicle Weight 1517 kg 610 kg
Wheelbase Size 2680 mm 2040 mm