1970 Mini MK III vs. 2009 BMW 320
To start off, 2009 BMW 320 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Mini MK III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Mini MK III would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1970 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1970 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 320 weights approximately 785 kg more than 1970 Mini MK III. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 Mini MK III, 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 320 (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Mini MK III. 2009 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1970 Mini MK III has manual transmission. 1970 Mini MK III will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Mini MK III | 2009 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Mini | BMW |
| Model | MK III | 320 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2770 mm |
