1974 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2006 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2006 Mini Cooper is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,520 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (223 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2006 Mini Cooper. (168 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2006 Mini Cooper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 515 kg more than 2006 Mini Cooper. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (378 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mini Cooper. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mini Cooper.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | 2006 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mini |
| Model | S | Cooper |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4520 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 378 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 77.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 85.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2470 mm |
