1981 Mini MK IV vs. 1998 BMW 730
To start off, 1998 BMW 730 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mini MK IV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mini MK IV would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 730 (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1981 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 730 weights approximately 1135 kg more than 1981 Mini MK IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 730 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 1998 BMW 730. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1998 BMW 730 (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 730 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mini MK IV. 1998 BMW 730 has automatic transmission and 1981 Mini MK IV has manual transmission. 1981 Mini MK IV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 730 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mini MK IV | 1998 BMW 730 | |
| Make | Mini | BMW |
| Model | MK IV | 730 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 2793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 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 | 3950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1745 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2940 mm |
