1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2011 Mini Cooper Countryman
To start off, 2011 Mini Cooper Countryman is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (5 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mini Cooper Countryman (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (87 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mini Cooper Countryman should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 245 kg more than 2011 Mini Cooper Countryman.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mini Cooper Countryman, 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 Mini Cooper Countryman (240 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Mini Cooper Countryman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2011 Mini Cooper Countryman | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mini |
| Model | 300 | Cooper Countryman |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1788 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1562 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3430 mm | 2596 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 47 L |
