1968 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2012 Mini Cooper is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mini Cooper (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 65 kg more than 2012 Mini Cooper.
Because 1968 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 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Mini Cooper (240 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. (216 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mini |
| Model | SL | Cooper |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3729 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1684 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2466 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 50 L |
