2009 Mini Cooper vs. 1972 Mini MK III
To start off, 2009 Mini Cooper is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mini MK III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mini MK III 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 134 more horse power than 1972 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1972 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mini Cooper weights approximately 515 kg more than 1972 Mini MK III. 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, 2009 Mini Cooper (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2009 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mini MK III.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mini Cooper | 1972 Mini MK III | |
| Make | Mini | Mini |
| Model | Cooper | MK III |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1930 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2040 mm |
