1997 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster
To start off, 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster. (121 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW M3 weights approximately 105 kg more than 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster, 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 M3 (236 Nm) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster. (160 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster | |
| Make | BMW | Mini |
| Model | M3 | Cooper Roadster |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 121 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3734 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1684 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1389 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2466 mm |
