1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2006 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2006 Mini Cooper is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2006 Mini Cooper. (169 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2006 Mini Cooper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 110 kg more than 2006 Mini Cooper. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK (280 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mini Cooper. (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mini Cooper.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2006 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mini |
| Model | SLK | Cooper |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2295 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
