2009 Mini Cooper vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mini Cooper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mini Cooper would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 214 more horse power than 2009 Mini Cooper. (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Mini Cooper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 780 kg more than 2009 Mini Cooper. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mini Cooper. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mini Cooper. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2009 Mini Cooper has manual transmission. 2009 Mini Cooper will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mini Cooper | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mini | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Cooper | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 5.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1905 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1930 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 80 L |
