1987 BMW 318 vs. 2009 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2009 Mini Cooper is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mini Cooper (172 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1987 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mini Cooper weights approximately 159 kg more than 1987 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 BMW 318 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 1987 BMW 318. 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, 2009 Mini Cooper (240 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW 318. (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 BMW 318 | 2009 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | BMW | Mini |
| Model | 318 | Cooper |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 77.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 85.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2470 mm |
