1996 Mini MK VI vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mini MK VI. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mini MK VI would be higher. At 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1996 Mini MK VI. (41 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mini MK VI.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2011 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 291 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mini MK VI. (69 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mini MK VI.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mini MK VI | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mini | Mazda |
| Model | MK VI | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 998 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2639 mm |
