2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2012 Mini Cooper is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 1,794 cc, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mini Cooper (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 510 kg more than 2012 Mini Cooper.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, both vehicles can yield 240 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2012 Mini Cooper has manual transmission. 2012 Mini Cooper will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 2012 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mini |
| Model | C | Cooper |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1600 cc |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 3734 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1414 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2466 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 50 L |
