2008 BMW M3 vs. 1979 Mini MK IV
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mini MK IV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mini MK IV would be higher. At 3,246 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (339 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 305 more horse power than 1979 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 960 kg more than 1979 Mini MK IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW M3 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 2008 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Mini MK IV, 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, 2008 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 304 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 1979 Mini MK IV | |
| Make | BMW | Mini |
| Model | M3 | MK IV |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2040 mm |
