1983 BMW 323 vs. 1972 Mini MK III
To start off, 1983 BMW 323 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mini MK III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mini MK III would be higher. At 2,315 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 BMW 323 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1972 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1972 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 BMW 323 weights approximately 517 kg more than 1972 Mini MK III. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 BMW 323 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 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 Mini MK III, 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, 1983 BMW 323 (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1983 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mini MK III.
Compare all specifications:
1983 BMW 323 | 1972 Mini MK III | |
Make | BMW | Mini |
Model | 323 | MK III |
Year Released | 1983 | 1972 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2315 cc | 848 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 34 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 205 Nm | 61 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2900 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1127 kg | 610 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1420 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2040 mm |