2009 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1971 Mini MK III
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mini MK III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mini MK III would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 348 more horse power than 1971 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1971 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 2220 kg more than 1971 Mini MK III. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz S 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 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Mini MK III, 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 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 399 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mini MK III. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1971 Mini MK III has manual transmission. 1971 Mini MK III will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz S | 1971 Mini MK III | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mini |
| Model | S | MK III |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 382 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2040 mm |
