1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2012 Mini Cooper Clubman
To start off, 2012 Mini Cooper Clubman is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,005 cc (5 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mini Cooper Clubman (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. (80 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mini Cooper Clubman should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 160 kg more than 2012 Mini Cooper Clubman.
Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mini Cooper Clubman, 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 Clubman (240 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. (171 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Mini Cooper Clubman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2012 Mini Cooper Clubman | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mini |
| Model | 300 | Cooper Clubman |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3005 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1684 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1433 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2548 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 50 L |
