1996 Opel Vectra vs. 2012 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2012 Mini Cooper is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mini Cooper (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1996 Opel Vectra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mini Cooper weights approximately 9 kg more than 1996 Opel Vectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Mini Cooper (240 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Vectra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Vectra | 2012 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | Opel | Mini |
| Model | Vectra | Cooper |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3734 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1684 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1414 mm |
