1984 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1981 Mini MK IV
To start off, 1984 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 3 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 3,837 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Mercedes-Benz S (201 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1981 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1984 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1981 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 975 kg more than 1981 Mini MK IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1984 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1984 Mercedes-Benz S (315 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 254 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1984 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Mercedes-Benz S | 1981 Mini MK IV | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mini |
| Model | S | MK IV |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3837 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2040 mm |
