2008 Mini Cooper vs. 1989 Mini MK V
To start off, 2008 Mini Cooper is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mini MK V. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mini MK V 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 131 more horse power than 1989 Mini MK V. (41 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1989 Mini MK V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mini Cooper weights approximately 585 kg more than 1989 Mini MK V. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mini MK V. (70 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mini MK V.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mini Cooper | 1989 Mini MK V | |
| Make | Mini | Mini |
| Model | Cooper | MK V |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 41 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 70 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2040 mm |
