1988 BMW M3 vs. 1974 Mini MK III
To start off, 1988 BMW M3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mini MK III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mini MK III would be higher. At 2,303 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (221 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1974 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW M3 weights approximately 590 kg more than 1974 Mini MK III. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW M3 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 1988 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Mini MK III, 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, 1988 BMW M3 (245 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1988 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mini MK III.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 1974 Mini MK III | |
| Make | BMW | Mini |
| Model | M3 | MK III |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2303 cc | 847 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2040 mm |
