1974 Mini MK III vs. 1983 BMW 325
To start off, 1983 BMW 325 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mini MK III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mini MK III would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 BMW 325 (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1974 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 BMW 325 weights approximately 525 kg more than 1974 Mini MK III. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 BMW 325 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 1983 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1983 BMW 325 (222 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1983 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mini MK III. 1983 BMW 325 has automatic transmission and 1974 Mini MK III has manual transmission. 1974 Mini MK III will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 BMW 325 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Mini MK III | 1983 BMW 325 | |
Make | Mini | BMW |
Model | MK III | 325 |
Year Released | 1974 | 1983 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 847 cc | 2494 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 34 HP | 171 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 61 Nm | 222 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1135 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4330 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1650 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2580 mm |