1983 BMW 316 vs. 2009 Mini Cooper

To start off, 2009 Mini Cooper is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mini Cooper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mini Cooper (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1983 BMW 316. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mini Cooper weights approximately 225 kg more than 1983 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1983 BMW 316 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 1983 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Mini Cooper (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 316. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 316. 2009 Mini Cooper has automatic transmission and 1983 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1983 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mini Cooper will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1983 BMW 316 2009 Mini Cooper
Make BMW Mini
Model 316 Cooper
Year Released 1983 2009
Body Type Coupe Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1572 cc 1598 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 88 HP 168 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 140 Nm 220 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 8.3:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Top Speed 175 km/hour 210 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 990 kg 1215 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 3660 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1420 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1930 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2470 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 50 L