1995 BMW S3 vs. 2012 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2012 Mini Cooper is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW S3 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW S3 (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 2012 Mini Cooper. (208 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mini Cooper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW S3 weights approximately 430 kg more than 2012 Mini Cooper. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 BMW S3 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 1995 BMW S3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, both vehicles can yield 260 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW S3 | 2012 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | BMW | Mini |
| Model | S3 | Cooper |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3734 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1684 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1414 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2466 mm |
