1978 BMW 520 vs. 2002 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2002 Mini Cooper is newer by 24 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, 2002 Mini Cooper (163 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1978 BMW 520. (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 520.
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, 2002 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, 1978 BMW 520 (280 Nm) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mini Cooper. (210 Nm). This means 1978 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mini Cooper.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 520 | 2002 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | BMW | Mini |
| Model | 520 | Cooper |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1951 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 218 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2470 mm |
