1961 Austin Mini Cooper vs. 2009 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 48 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 360 more horse power than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. (54 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 736 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 2009 BMW M3 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 2009 BMW M3. 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 326 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. (74 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 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 | 2009 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | Mini Cooper | M3 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 74 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 62.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Top Speed | 135 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 584 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3050 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 63 L |
