1972 Mini Clubman vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mini Clubman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mini Clubman would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (182 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1972 Mini Clubman. (38 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1972 Mini Clubman. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 755 kg more than 1972 Mini Clubman. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 Mini Clubman, 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 Mercedes-Benz SLK (250 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mini Clubman. (72 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mini Clubman. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1972 Mini Clubman has manual transmission. 1972 Mini Clubman will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Mini Clubman | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Mini | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Clubman | SLK |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 998 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 72 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 680 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3180 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2431 mm |
