1961 Austin Mini Cooper vs. 2006 BMW 550
To start off, 2006 BMW 550 is newer by 45 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 4,801 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 306 more horse power than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. (54 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper.
Because 2006 BMW 550 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 2006 BMW 550. 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, 2006 BMW 550 (488 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 414 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. (74 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 550 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 | 2006 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | Mini Cooper | 550 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 4801 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 360 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 74 Nm | 488 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 62.4 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3050 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 70 L |
