1961 Austin Mini Cooper vs. 2002 Pontiac Solstice
To start off, 2002 Pontiac Solstice is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin Mini Cooper would be higher. At 2,200 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Pontiac Solstice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Pontiac Solstice (240 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. (54 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Pontiac Solstice should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Pontiac Solstice weights approximately 734 kg more than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Pontiac Solstice 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 2002 Pontiac Solstice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 Austin Mini Cooper, 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, 2002 Pontiac Solstice (305 Nm) has 231 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. (74 Nm). This means 2002 Pontiac Solstice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin Mini Cooper | 2002 Pontiac Solstice | |
| Make | Austin | Pontiac |
| Model | Mini Cooper | Solstice |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 2200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 74 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 584 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3050 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2830 mm |
