1977 Mini MK IV vs. 2012 BMW 118
To start off, 2012 BMW 118 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mini MK IV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mini MK IV would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 118 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 118 (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1977 Mini MK IV. (44 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 118 should accelerate faster than 1977 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 118 weights approximately 695 kg more than 1977 Mini MK IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW 118 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 2012 BMW 118. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Mini MK IV, 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 BMW 118 (190 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mini MK IV. (76 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 118 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Mini MK IV | 2012 BMW 118 | |
| Make | Mini | BMW |
| Model | MK IV | 118 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 76 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 645 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1421 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2660 mm |
