2011 Mini Cooper vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Mini Cooper is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mini Cooper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mini Cooper (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mini Cooper weights approximately 65 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra. 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, 2011 Mini Cooper (240 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra. 2008 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 2011 Mini Cooper has manual transmission. 2011 Mini Cooper will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mini Cooper | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mini | Opel |
| Model | Cooper | Astra |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1600 cc | 1363 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3729 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1684 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1415 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2466 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 52 L |
