1997 BMW 318 vs. 2008 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2008 Mini Cooper is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mini Cooper (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1997 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 318 weights approximately 130 kg more than 2008 Mini Cooper.
Because 1997 BMW 318 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 1997 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1997 BMW 318 (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mini Cooper. (160 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1997 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mini Cooper. 2008 Mini Cooper has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mini Cooper will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 318 | 2008 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | BMW | Mini |
| Model | 318 | Cooper |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 40 L |
