2002 Mini Cooper vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mini Cooper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mini Cooper would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mini Cooper (163 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (161 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mini Cooper, 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (240 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mini Cooper. (210 Nm). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mini Cooper. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2002 Mini Cooper has manual transmission. 2002 Mini Cooper will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mini Cooper | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Mini | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Cooper | SLK |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2440 mm |
