1976 Mini MK III vs. 2011 BMW Z4
To start off, 2011 BMW Z4 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mini MK III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mini MK III would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW Z4 (335 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 301 more horse power than 1976 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW Z4 weights approximately 1000 kg more than 1976 Mini MK III. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW Z4 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 2011 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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, 2011 BMW Z4 (450 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 389 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2011 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mini MK III. 2011 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 1976 Mini MK III has manual transmission. 1976 Mini MK III will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mini MK III | 2011 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Mini | BMW |
| Model | MK III | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4242 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1285 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2497 mm |
