1980 Mini MK IV vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mini MK IV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mini MK IV would be higher. At 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1980 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1980 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 715 kg more than 1980 Mini MK IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK (280 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mini MK IV. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1980 Mini MK IV has manual transmission. 1980 Mini MK IV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mini MK IV | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Mini | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | MK IV | SLK |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2410 mm |
