2009 BMW 550 vs. 1996 Mini MK VI

To start off, 2009 BMW 550 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mini MK VI. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mini MK VI would be higher. At 4,799 cc, 2009 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 550 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 321 more horse power than 1996 Mini MK VI. (41 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mini MK VI. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 550 weights approximately 1042 kg more than 1996 Mini MK VI. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 BMW 550 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 2009 BMW 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mini MK VI, 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, 2009 BMW 550 (490 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 421 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mini MK VI. (69 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mini MK VI. 2009 BMW 550 has automatic transmission and 1996 Mini MK VI has manual transmission. 1996 Mini MK VI will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 550 1996 Mini MK VI
Make BMW Mini
Model 550 MK VI
Year Released 2009 1996
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4799 cc 998 cc
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 362 HP 41 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 5250 RPM
Torque 490 Nm 69 Nm
Torque RPM 3400 RPM 2600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 1662 kg 620 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 3060 mm
Vehicle Width 1470 mm 1450 mm
Vehicle Height 1850 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2040 mm