2006 Mini Cooper vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Mini Cooper is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,801 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (172 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2006 Mini Cooper. (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2006 Mini Cooper.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (235 Nm) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mini Cooper. (220 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mini Cooper.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mini Cooper | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mini | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cooper | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1606 cc | 2801 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2480 mm |
