1978 BMW 520 vs. 1993 Mini MK VI
To start off, 1993 Mini MK VI is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,951 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 520 (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1993 Mini MK VI. (41 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1993 Mini MK VI. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW 520 weights approximately 1050 kg more than 1993 Mini MK VI. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 BMW 520 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 1978 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 Mini MK VI, 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, 1978 BMW 520 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Mini MK VI. (68 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1978 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Mini MK VI.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 520 | 1993 Mini MK VI | |
| Make | BMW | Mini |
| Model | 520 | MK VI |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1951 cc | 998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 41 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 68 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2040 mm |
