2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1996 Mini MK VI
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 5,512 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 469 more horse power than 1996 Mini MK VI. (41 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 Mini MK VI. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1330 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 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. 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 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 761 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mini MK VI. (69 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mini MK VI. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1996 Mini MK VI | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mini |
| Model | SL | MK VI |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5512 cc | 998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 41 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 830 Nm | 69 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2040 mm |
