2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2002 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mini Cooper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mini Cooper would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 436 more horse power than 2002 Mini Cooper. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2002 Mini Cooper.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm) has 681 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mini Cooper. (149 Nm). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mini Cooper. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2002 Mini Cooper has manual transmission. 2002 Mini Cooper will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2002 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mini |
| Model | SL | Cooper |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 830 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2470 mm |
