1981 Mini MK IV vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 31 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R (187 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1981 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1981 Mini MK IV.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Mini MK IV. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R (440 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 379 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mini MK IV. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mini MK IV | 2012 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Mini | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | MK IV | R |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 5156 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1958 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1661 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 3216 mm |
