1981 BMW 725 vs. 2008 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2008 Mini Cooper is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 725 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mini Cooper (207 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1981 BMW 725. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 725.
Because 1981 BMW 725 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 1981 BMW 725. 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 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 725. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 725.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 725 | 2008 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | BMW | Mini |
| Model | 725 | Cooper |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 85.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2470 mm |
