1972 Mini MK III vs. 2012 BMW 530
To start off, 2012 BMW 530 is newer by 40 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 530 (271 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 237 more horse power than 1972 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1972 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 530 weights approximately 1100 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 2012 BMW 530 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 BMW 530. 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, 2012 BMW 530 (310 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 249 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mini MK III. 2012 BMW 530 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. 2012 BMW 530 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Mini MK III | 2012 BMW 530 | |
| Make | Mini | BMW |
| Model | MK III | 530 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1710 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4899 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2968 mm |
