1996 Volkswagen Golf 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 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,801 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mini Cooper (208 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (172 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
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 (260 Nm) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (235 Nm). This means 2012 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mini |
| Model | Golf | Cooper |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2801 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 3729 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1684 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1407 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2466 mm |
