2006 Mini Cooper vs. 2002 Pontiac Solstice
To start off, 2006 Mini Cooper is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Pontiac Solstice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Pontiac Solstice would be higher. At 2,200 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Pontiac Solstice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Pontiac Solstice (240 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 2006 Mini Cooper. (169 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Pontiac Solstice should accelerate faster than 2006 Mini Cooper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Pontiac Solstice weights approximately 103 kg more than 2006 Mini Cooper. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Pontiac Solstice 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 2002 Pontiac Solstice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2002 Pontiac Solstice (305 Nm) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mini Cooper. (210 Nm). This means 2002 Pontiac Solstice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mini Cooper.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mini Cooper | 2002 Pontiac Solstice | |
| Make | Mini | Pontiac |
| Model | Cooper | Solstice |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2830 mm |
