1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 2008 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2008 Mini Cooper is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mini Cooper (169 HP) has 35 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2008 Mini Cooper.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mini Cooper (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 2008 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mini |
| Model | 230 | Cooper |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2298 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 169 HP |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 85.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.5 seconds | 7.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 50 L |
