2021 MINI Cooper vs 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is 8.0 out of 10, while the 2021 MINI Cooper scores 5.0 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is the clear winner, offering superior safety, luxury, and performance.
Choose the 2021 MINI Cooper if:
- You value iconic styling and extensive customization options.
- You prefer a small, agile car that's fun to drive in urban settings.
- You want a vehicle with a unique interior design and physical controls for ease of use.
Choose the 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class if:
- You prioritize advanced safety features and high safety ratings.
- You desire a luxurious interior with high-quality materials and advanced tech.
- You need a versatile vehicle with multiple body styles and powerful engine options.
Overview | |
MSRP$54,050 | MSRP$22,400 |
Average price$38,524 | Average price$23,805 |
Listings339 | Listings139 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews8.0 out of 10 | Expert reviews5.0 out of 10 |
Pros
| Pros
|
2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Reviews SummaryA Mercedes-Benz is a physical indulgence that gives as much or as little pleasure as your checking account allows. The 2020 E-Class starts off well-equipped in ways a $55,000 Mercedes wasn't just a few years ago, and it becomes decadent and power-drunk once you start adding options. For 2020, a new base engine joins this car's stellar design, technology, and effortless demeanor. | |
2021 MINI Cooper Reviews SummaryThe MINI Cooper is a funky little car with a big attitude that screams nostalgia. The BMW-owned automaker marches to the beat of its own drum, and while the MINI Cooper isn’t the most practical or best equipped car in its class, its unique styling and classic fun-loving attitude will be just what the doctor ordered for many buyers. The Cooper is available in body styles that include the two-door Mini Cooper Hardtop, a four-door hardtop, and a convertible. Other variants of the Cooper go by different names, such as the larger MINI Countryman crossover and the Clubman wagon. Updates for the 2021 model year includes several new features and the re-addition of a manual transmission option. Two new special editions are also available: MINI Sidewalk and John Cooper Works GP. The MINI Cooper's odd place in the market pits it against several competitors from various classes. New car buyers may cross-shop the Mazda MX-5 Miata, BMW 2 Series, Kia Soul, Kia Seltos, Subaru BRZ, Toyota GR86, Hyundai Kona, or Mazda MX-30 when making a buying decision on the MINI. Prior to their discontinuation, the Ford Fiesta and Honda Fit were solid Mini competitors as well. | |
No video found | |
Popular Features & Specs | |
Engine2.0L 255 hp I4 | Engine1.5L 134 hp I3 |
Drive TrainRWD | Drive TrainFWD |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity4 |
Horsepower255 hp @ 5800 rpm | Horsepower134 hp @ 4400 rpm |
MPG City23 | MPG City26 |
MPG Highway32 | MPG Highway37 |
Engine | |
Engine Name2.0L 255 hp I4 | Engine Name1.5L 134 hp I3 |
Torque273 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm | Torque162 lb-ft @ 1250 rpm |
Horsepower255 hp @ 5800 rpm | Horsepower134 hp @ 4400 rpm |
DrivetrainRWD | DrivetrainFWD |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City23 | MPG City26 |
MPG Highway32 | MPG Highway37 |
Interior | |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity4 |
Key Features | |
Navigation SystemStandard | Navigation System |
Sunroof/MoonroofStandard | Sunroof/Moonroof |
Safety | |
Front Crash Overall5 | Front Crash Overall4 |
Side Crash Overall5 | Side Crash Overall4 |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Cargo Space13.1 cu ft | Cargo Space8.7 cu ft |
Curb Weight3814 lbs | Curb Weight2707 lbs |
Height57.8 in | Height55.7 in |
Length193.8 in | Length151.1 in |
Width81.3 in | Width76.1 in |
Wheelbase115.7 in | Wheelbase98.2 in |
Maximum Payload | Maximum Payload818 lbs |
Number of doors4 | Number of doors2 |
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is 8.0 out of 10, while the 2021 MINI Cooper scores 5.0 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is the clear winner, offering superior safety, luxury, and performance.
Choose the 2021 MINI Cooper if:
Shop Now- You value iconic styling and extensive customization options.
- You prefer a small, agile car that's fun to drive in urban settings.
- You want a vehicle with a unique interior design and physical controls for ease of use.
Choose the 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class if:
Shop Now- You prioritize advanced safety features and high safety ratings.
- You desire a luxurious interior with high-quality materials and advanced tech.
- You need a versatile vehicle with multiple body styles and powerful engine options.
Overview | ||
MSRP | $54,050 | $22,400 |
Average price | $38,524 | $23,805 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | 4.8 | 4.7 |
Expert reviews | 8.0 out of 10Read full review | 5.0 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
| Pros
|
Summary | A Mercedes-Benz is a physical indulgence that gives as much or as little pleasure as your checking account allows. The 2020 E-Class starts off well-equipped in ways a $55,000 Mercedes wasn't just a few years ago, and it becomes decadent and power-drunk once you start adding options. For 2020, a new base engine joins this car's stellar design, technology, and effortless demeanor. | The MINI Cooper is a funky little car with a big attitude that screams nostalgia. The BMW-owned automaker marches to the beat of its own drum, and while the MINI Cooper isn’t the most practical or best equipped car in its class, its unique styling and classic fun-loving attitude will be just what the doctor ordered for many buyers. The Cooper is available in body styles that include the two-door Mini Cooper Hardtop, a four-door hardtop, and a convertible. Other variants of the Cooper go by different names, such as the larger MINI Countryman crossover and the Clubman wagon. Updates for the 2021 model year includes several new features and the re-addition of a manual transmission option. Two new special editions are also available: MINI Sidewalk and John Cooper Works GP. The MINI Cooper's odd place in the market pits it against several competitors from various classes. New car buyers may cross-shop the Mazda MX-5 Miata, BMW 2 Series, Kia Soul, Kia Seltos, Subaru BRZ, Toyota GR86, Hyundai Kona, or Mazda MX-30 when making a buying decision on the MINI. Prior to their discontinuation, the Ford Fiesta and Honda Fit were solid Mini competitors as well. |
Video | No video found | |
Popular Features & Specs | ||
Engine | 2.0L 255 hp I4 | 1.5L 134 hp I3 |
Drive Train | RWD | FWD |
Seating Capacity | 5 | 4 |
Horsepower | 255 hp @ 5800 rpm | 134 hp @ 4400 rpm |
MPG City | 23 | 26 |
MPG Highway | 32 | 37 |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 2.0L 255 hp I4 | 1.5L 134 hp I3 |
Torque | 273 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm | 162 lb-ft @ 1250 rpm |
Horsepower | 255 hp @ 5800 rpm | 134 hp @ 4400 rpm |
Drivetrain | RWD | FWD |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 23 | 26 |
MPG Highway | 32 | 37 |
Interior | ||
Seating Capacity | 5 | 4 |
Key Features | ||
Navigation System | Standard | |
Sunroof/Moonroof | Standard | |
Safety | ||
Front Crash Overall | 5 | 4 |
Side Crash Overall | 5 | 4 |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Cargo Space | 13.1 cu ft | 8.7 cu ft |
Curb Weight | 3814 lbs | 2707 lbs |
Height | 57.8 in | 55.7 in |
Length | 193.8 in | 151.1 in |
Width | 81.3 in | 76.1 in |
Wheelbase | 115.7 in | 98.2 in |
Maximum Payload | 818 lbs | |
Number of doors | 4 | 2 |
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, introduced in 2017, harkened back to the E-Class from two generations prior with its rounded, smooth body. While some felt it was overly streamlined, the resemblance to the larger S-Class and smaller C-Class made it a recognizable and respectable member of the Mercedes family. Available in sedan, wagon, coupe, or cabriolet, the E-Class catered to conservative buyers with its versatile design. The sedan, in particular, looked rich with the traditional hood ornament and thin-laced chrome grille, though most models featured a sport grille with a large Mercedes emblem. The LED lighting was delicate, and the car's proportions were visually appealing across different models.
The cabriolet version of the E-Class particularly benefited from the fluid, creaseless form, with a contrasting soft top that revealed a sumptuous interior. The interior, when specified with multi-tone leathers and polished wood, was a delight. Two feet of high-res digital screens stretched across the dash, complemented by industrial elements like circular air vents and knurled silver toggles. The ambient lighting offered 64 colors and animations, enhancing the luxurious feel. Even the base model, with leatherette and standard seats, felt a cut above other cars in its segment.
The 2021 MINI Cooper stood out with its iconic styling, immediately recognizable like the Jeep Wrangler. Its rounded shape, compact dimensions, and wide variety of color choices set it apart in the subcompact car space. MINI offered several customization options for the exterior and top, including graphics like the Union Jack flag. Hidden Easter eggs, such as Union Jack taillights, added to its charm. Though larger than the original Mini, the 2021 Cooper offered wheel and trim upgrades depending on the model.
Inside, the MINI Cooper continued its unique design language with plenty of circles and rounded shapes. The infotainment touchscreen was mounted inside a circular light ring, and the air vents followed the same design. The cabin was generally high quality but lacked space, with the back seats best used for cargo rather than passengers. The front seats were comfortable, but the overall space was tight, making it less suitable for taller drivers.
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class offered a range of powertrains. The E350 replaced the E300, featuring a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with 255 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. Despite its improvements, the E350 felt underpowered at higher speeds. The E450, with a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 producing 362 hp and 369 lb-ft, provided a more balanced and powerful experience. The AMG models, E53 and E63 S, offered even more performance, with the E63 S boasting a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 with 603 hp and 627 lb-ft. Fuel economy varied, with the E63 S showing 16/23 mpg city/highway.
The 2021 MINI Cooper offered four powertrain options. The base model had a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine with 134 hp. The Cooper S featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 189 hp, while the John Cooper Works (JCW) had a 228-hp turbo-four. The JCW GP model, with a 301-hp turbo-four, provided the best acceleration. All models were front-wheel drive, with manual and automatic transmission options. The MINI felt spritely and energetic, though the ride was stiff and could become tiresome on long drives. Fuel economy varied, with the most efficient model being the Convertible at 28/37/31 mpg city/highway/combined.
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured a complicated COMAND infotainment system, which was not touchscreen and could be unwieldy. The system required multiple steps for various functions, making it distracting while driving. However, the E-Class excelled in functionality with features like seat and seat climate controls on the door panels and ample space in every dimension. The coupe had a usable rear seat, and the wagon offered a rear-facing jump seat for small children. The digital dash, when set up properly, was clear and high-res.
The 2021 MINI Cooper's interior was more suited for cargo storage than passengers, with the rear seat being tight. The front seats were comfortable, but the overall space was limited, making it less ideal for taller drivers. Interior storage was also tight, with small center console storage and door pockets. The Hatchback models offered decent cargo space with the back seats folded down, while the Convertible had limited space under the folding top compartment.
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured advanced tech, including a semi-automated driving system that could steer, change lanes, and sense obstacles. The V2X system communicated with nearby Mercedes models about road hazards. The dash could be reconfigured, and the car included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Burmester stereo and multi-contour seats added to the luxury. Some features, like the Energizing Comfort Package, were more novelty than necessity.
The 2021 MINI Cooper was less generous with standard features. The base screen was 6.5 inches, with an optional 8.8-inch unit offering more features. Optional tech included a Harman Kardon sound system and automatic climate controls. MINI included more physical controls, improving usability, but did not offer Android Auto. The infotainment system used BMW's software, with a physical iDrive controller that was difficult to reach due to the tight space.
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedan and wagon scored a 5-star overall rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS. The coupe and cabriolet were not tested but were considered equally safe. Innovations included Pre-Safe Sound, side bolster inflation during a side collision, and countering crosswinds. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking, a driver attention monitor, and blind-spot monitoring, with 14 optional driver-assist features.
The 2021 MINI Cooper did not receive a Top Safety Pick designation from IIHS, scoring "Good" in crash tests but "Acceptable" or "Poor" for headlights. The front crash prevention systems earned "Advanced" scores, and the LATCH system was rated "Marginal." NHTSA had not rated the 2021 model. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and rear parking sensors, with other features being optional.
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