1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1971 Mini Clubman
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mini Clubman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mini Clubman would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (228 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 1971 Mini Clubman. (38 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1971 Mini Clubman. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1216 kg more than 1971 Mini Clubman. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Mini Clubman, 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (315 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 243 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mini Clubman. (72 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mini Clubman. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1971 Mini Clubman has manual transmission. 1971 Mini Clubman will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 1971 Mini Clubman | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mini |
| Model | S | Clubman |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 72 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1896 kg | 680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 3180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2040 mm |
