1997 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1978 Mini MK IV
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mini MK IV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mini MK IV would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E (349 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 315 more horse power than 1978 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1978 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1100 kg more than 1978 Mini MK IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz E 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 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Mini MK IV, 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 Mercedes-Benz E (531 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 470 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mini MK IV. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1978 Mini MK IV has manual transmission. 1978 Mini MK IV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz E | 1978 Mini MK IV | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mini |
| Model | E | MK IV |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 349 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 531 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2040 mm |
