1983 Mini MK IV vs. 2011 BMW 120
To start off, 2011 BMW 120 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Mini MK IV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Mini MK IV would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 120 (154 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1983 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1983 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 120 weights approximately 915 kg more than 1983 Mini MK IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW 120 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 2011 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 2011 BMW 120 (200 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Mini MK IV | 2011 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Mini | BMW |
| Model | MK IV | 120 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2670 mm |
