2008 Mini Cooper vs. 1965 NSU Wankel Spider

To start off, 2008 Mini Cooper is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 NSU Wankel Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 NSU Wankel Spider would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mini Cooper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mini Cooper (172 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1965 NSU Wankel Spider. (49 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1965 NSU Wankel Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mini Cooper weights approximately 480 kg more than 1965 NSU Wankel Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1965 NSU Wankel Spider 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 1965 NSU Wankel Spider. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 Mini Cooper (240 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 NSU Wankel Spider. (74 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 NSU Wankel Spider.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Mini Cooper 1965 NSU Wankel Spider
Make Mini NSU
Model Cooper Wankel Spider
Year Released 2008 1965
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 1598 cc 495 cc
Horse Power 172 HP 49 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 240 Nm 74 Nm
Torque RPM 1600 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1215 kg 735 kg
Vehicle Length 3720 mm 3590 mm
Vehicle Width 1690 mm 1530 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1270 mm
Wheelbase Size 2470 mm 2020 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 50 L 34 L