1971 BMW 3 vs. 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster
To start off, 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster. (121 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 185 kg more than 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 BMW 3 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 1971 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster, 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, 1971 BMW 3 (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster. (160 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster | |
| Make | BMW | Mini |
| Model | 3 | Cooper Roadster |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 121 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3734 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1684 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1389 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2466 mm |
