2002 Mini Cooper vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 9 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), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK (182 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 2002 Mini Cooper. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2002 Mini Cooper.
Because 2011 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 2011 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK (250 Nm) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mini Cooper. (149 Nm). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mini Cooper. 2011 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mini Cooper | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Mini | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Cooper | SLK |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
| 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 | 74 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3640 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2431 mm |
