1983 BMW 320 vs. 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster
To start off, 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 320 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster (208 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1983 BMW 320. (120 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster weights approximately 191 kg more than 1983 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster, 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, 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster (260 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 320. (171 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 320 | 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster | |
| Make | BMW | Mini |
| Model | 320 | Cooper Roadster |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1850 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1241 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3734 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1684 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1389 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2466 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
