1961 Austin Mini Cooper vs. 2006 BMW Z4
To start off, 2006 BMW Z4 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW Z4 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. (54 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW Z4 weights approximately 742 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 2006 BMW Z4 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 Z4. 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 Z4 (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. (74 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 BMW Z4 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 Z4 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | Mini Cooper | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 74 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 62.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 90 mm |
| Top Speed | 135 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| 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 | 1326 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3050 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 55 L |
