1961 Austin Mini Cooper vs. 2001 BMW 318
To start off, 2001 BMW 318 is newer by 40 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 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 318 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. (54 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 318 weights approximately 811 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 2001 BMW 318 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 2001 BMW 318. 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, 2001 BMW 318 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. (74 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2001 BMW 318 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 | 2001 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | Mini Cooper | 318 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 74 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 62.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 90 mm |
| Top Speed | 135 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 584 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3050 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 63 L |
