2009 Mini Cooper vs. 1959 NSU Prinz I
To start off, 2009 Mini Cooper is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 NSU Prinz I. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 NSU Prinz I would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mini Cooper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mini Cooper (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1959 NSU Prinz I. (20 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1959 NSU Prinz I. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mini Cooper weights approximately 699 kg more than 1959 NSU Prinz I. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 NSU Prinz I 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 1959 NSU Prinz I. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mini Cooper, 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 Mini Cooper (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 NSU Prinz I. (41 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2009 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 NSU Prinz I.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mini Cooper | 1959 NSU Prinz I | |
| Make | Mini | NSU |
| Model | Cooper | Prinz I |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 583 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 20 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 41 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 6.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 109 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 516 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 3150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1930 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 44 L |
