1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2005 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2005 Mini Cooper is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 (174 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2005 Mini Cooper. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mini Cooper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 335 kg more than 2005 Mini Cooper. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 (233 Nm) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mini Cooper. (151 Nm). This means 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mini Cooper.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2005 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mini |
| Model | 280 | Cooper |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1604 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 3640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 50 L |
