1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2013 Mini Coupe
To start off, 2013 Mini Coupe is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 2013 Mini Coupe. (121 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2013 Mini Coupe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 634 kg more than 2013 Mini Coupe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Mini Coupe, 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 SL (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 308 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Mini Coupe. (160 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Mini Coupe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2013 Mini Coupe | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mini |
| Model | SL | Coupe |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4971 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 315 HP | 121 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1769 kg | 1135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3728 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1892 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1378 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2467 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 40 L |
