2008 Mini Cooper vs. 1997 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2008 Mini Cooper is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 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 82 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. (90 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mini Cooper weights approximately 40 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. 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 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. (115 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mini Cooper | 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Mini | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Cooper | 146 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1351 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 50 L |
