2008 Mini Cooper vs. 1972 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Mini Cooper is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 6,598 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 338 kg more than 2008 Mini Cooper.
Because 1972 Pontiac Firebird 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 1972 Pontiac Firebird. 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, 1972 Pontiac Firebird (434 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mini Cooper. (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mini Cooper. 1972 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 2008 Mini Cooper has manual transmission. 2008 Mini Cooper will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mini Cooper | 1972 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mini | Pontiac |
| Model | Cooper | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 6598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 185 HP |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 434 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 110.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 182 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1653 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 76 L |
