1964 Austin Mini Cooper vs. 1991 BMW M12
To start off, 1991 BMW M12 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Austin Mini Cooper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Austin Mini Cooper would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW M12 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 220 more horse power than 1964 Austin Mini Cooper. (76 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW M12 should accelerate faster than 1964 Austin Mini Cooper.
Because 1991 BMW M12 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 1991 BMW M12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1964 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, 1991 BMW M12 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 354 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Austin Mini Cooper. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 BMW M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Austin Mini Cooper.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Austin Mini Cooper | 1991 BMW M12 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | Mini Cooper | M12 |
| Year Released | 1964 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 4988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2610 mm |
