1986 BMW 325 vs. 1997 Mini MK VII
To start off, 1997 Mini MK VII is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW 325 (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1997 Mini MK VII. (96 HP @ 6130 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mini MK VII. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 BMW 325 weights approximately 520 kg more than 1997 Mini MK VII. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 BMW 325 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 1986 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mini MK VII, 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, 1986 BMW 325 (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mini MK VII. (115 Nm @ 2650 RPM). This means 1986 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mini MK VII.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW 325 | 1997 Mini MK VII | |
| Make | BMW | Mini |
| Model | 325 | MK VII |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 1275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6130 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2040 mm |
