1972 Morgan 4 vs. 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster
To start off, 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Morgan 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Morgan 4 would be higher. At 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster (121 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1972 Morgan 4. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster should accelerate faster than 1972 Morgan 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster weights approximately 535 kg more than 1972 Morgan 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Morgan 4 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 1972 Morgan 4. 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, 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster (160 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Morgan 4. (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Morgan 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Morgan 4 | 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster | |
| Make | Morgan | Mini |
| Model | 4 | Cooper Roadster |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 121 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 3734 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1684 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1389 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2466 mm |
