2000 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1972 Mini MK III

To start off, 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mini MK III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mini MK III would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL (217 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 183 more horse power than 1972 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1972 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1145 kg more than 1972 Mini MK III. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2000 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 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 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, 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL (316 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mini MK III.

Compare all specifications:

2000 Mercedes-Benz SL 1972 Mini MK III
Make Mercedes-Benz Mini
Model SL MK III
Year Released 2000 1972
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3199 cc 848 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 3 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 217 HP 34 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 316 Nm 61 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 2900 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Vehicle Weight 1755 kg 610 kg
Vehicle Length 4470 mm 3060 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1420 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2040 mm