1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1983 Mini MK IV
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Mini MK IV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Mini MK IV would be higher. At 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 241 more horse power than 1983 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1983 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1380 kg more than 1983 Mini MK IV. 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, 1983 Mini MK IV, 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 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 339 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Mini MK IV. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1983 Mini MK IV has manual transmission. 1983 Mini MK IV 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 | 1983 Mini MK IV | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mini |
| Model | S | MK IV |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 847 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1360 mm |
