1964 Austin Mini Cooper vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 41 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 2700 RPM) has 226 more horse power than 1964 Austin Mini Cooper. (76 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1964 Austin Mini Cooper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1198 kg more than 1964 Austin Mini Cooper. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 364 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Austin Mini Cooper. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Austin Mini Cooper. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1964 Austin Mini Cooper has manual transmission. 1964 Austin Mini Cooper will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Austin Mini Cooper | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Mini Cooper | SL |
| Year Released | 1964 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.6 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 154 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1848 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 80 L |
