1972 Mini MK III vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mini MK III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mini MK III would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (187 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1972 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1972 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1105 kg more than 1972 Mini MK III. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 339 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mini MK III. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1972 Mini MK III has manual transmission. 1972 Mini MK III will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Mini MK III | 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mini | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | MK III | E |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2860 mm |
