1972 Mini MK III vs. 2011 BMW 550
To start off, 2011 BMW 550 is newer by 39 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 366 more horse power than 1972 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1972 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 550 weights approximately 1610 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 2011 BMW 550 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 2011 BMW 550. 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, 2011 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 548 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mini MK III. 2011 BMW 550 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. 2011 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1972 Mini MK III | 2011 BMW 550 | |
Make | Mini | BMW |
Model | MK III | 550 |
Year Released | 1972 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 848 cc | 4400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 34 HP | 400 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 61 Nm | 609 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 2220 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4999 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 3071 mm |