2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster
To start off, 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 164 kg more than 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster, 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 SLK (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster. (260 Nm @ 1850 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster has manual transmission. 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2012 Mini Cooper Roadster | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mini |
| Model | SLK | Cooper Roadster |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 208 HP |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1850 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1241 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3734 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1389 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2466 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 50 L |
