2004 Mini Cooper vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mini Cooper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mini Cooper would be higher. At 2,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2004 Mini Cooper. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2004 Mini Cooper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 442 kg more than 2004 Mini Cooper. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Lexus IS 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 2012 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2012 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mini Cooper. (149 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mini Cooper.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mini Cooper | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Mini | Lexus |
| Model | Cooper | IS |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 65 L |
