1989 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1966 Mini Countryman
To start off, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Mini Countryman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Mini Countryman would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 1966 Mini Countryman. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1966 Mini Countryman. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1030 kg more than 1966 Mini Countryman. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 Mini Countryman, 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, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Mini Countryman. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Mini Countryman.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1966 Mini Countryman | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mini |
| Model | SL | Countryman |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 267 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2140 mm |
