1998 BMW 320 vs. 2012 Mini Cooper Countryman
To start off, 2012 Mini Cooper Countryman is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mini Cooper Countryman (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mini Cooper Countryman should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mini Cooper Countryman weights approximately 75 kg more than 1998 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 320 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 1998 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mini Cooper Countryman, 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, 2012 Mini Cooper Countryman (240 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Mini Cooper Countryman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 320 | 2012 Mini Cooper Countryman | |
| Make | BMW | Mini |
| Model | 320 | Cooper Countryman |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1788 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1562 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2596 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 47 L |
