1988 Mini MK V vs. 2012 BMW 525
To start off, 2012 BMW 525 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mini MK V. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mini MK V would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 525 (217 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 176 more horse power than 1988 Mini MK V. (41 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1988 Mini MK V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 525 weights approximately 1095 kg more than 1988 Mini MK V. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW 525 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 2012 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Mini MK V, 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, 2012 BMW 525 (450 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 380 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mini MK V. (70 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mini MK V. 2012 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 1988 Mini MK V has manual transmission. 1988 Mini MK V will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mini MK V | 2012 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Mini | BMW |
| Model | MK V | 525 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 998 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 70 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 625 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4899 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2968 mm |
