1980 Mini MK IV vs. 2011 BMW 550
To start off, 2011 BMW 550 is newer by 31 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 366 more horse power than 1980 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 550 weights approximately 1360 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 2011 BMW 550 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 2011 BMW 550. 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, 2011 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 548 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mini MK IV | 2011 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Mini | BMW |
| Model | MK IV | 550 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4905 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1463 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2969 mm |
