1998 BMW 325 vs. 1976 Mini MK III
To start off, 1998 BMW 325 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mini MK III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mini MK III would be higher. At 2,498 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 325 (114 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1976 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 325 weights approximately 824 kg more than 1976 Mini MK III. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 325 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 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Mini MK III, 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, 1998 BMW 325 (220 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mini MK III.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 325 | 1976 Mini MK III | |
| Make | BMW | Mini |
| Model | 325 | MK III |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2040 mm |
