1973 BMW 3 vs. 2009 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2009 Mini Cooper is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,153 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mini Cooper (208 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1973 BMW 3. (203 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1973 BMW 3.
Because 1973 BMW 3 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 1973 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mini Cooper, 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, 1973 BMW 3 (287 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mini Cooper. (260 Nm @ 5600 RPM). This means 1973 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mini Cooper.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 3 | 2009 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | BMW | Mini |
| Model | 3 | Cooper |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3153 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 287 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 85.8 mm |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 238 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
