1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 vs. 2009 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2009 Mini Cooper is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (219 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2009 Mini Cooper. (172 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mini Cooper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 weights approximately 475 kg more than 2009 Mini Cooper. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mini Cooper. (240 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mini Cooper.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | 2009 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mini |
| Model | 420 | Cooper |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 219 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 329 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 77.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 85.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 7.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2470 mm |
