2021 MINI Cooper vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The 2021 MINI Cooper was renowned for its iconic styling, easily recognizable alongside vehicles like the Jeep Wrangler. Its rounded shape, compact dimensions, and a wide array of color choices distinguished it in the subcompact car market. MINI offered numerous customization options, including exterior and roof graphics like the Union Jack flag, and hidden Easter eggs such as Union Jack taillights. Despite its small size, the MINI Cooper was larger than the original Mini, with available wheel and trim upgrades. Inside, the MINI Cooper continued its unique design language with circular motifs throughout the seats, dash, and center stack. The infotainment touchscreen was mounted within a circular light ring, and the cabin, though high in quality, was notably cramped, especially in the back seats, which were more suitable for packages than passengers.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class maintained its fantastic appearance from the previous year's complete makeover. Despite the growing popularity of SUVs, the S-Class stood as a testament to the enduring appeal of sedans. With roots tracing back to the 1954 "Ponton" models, the S-Class had evolved into Mercedes-Benz's flagship sedan, now in its seventh generation. The exterior was sleek, with a long distance between the front axle and dashboard, adding elegance to its design. The S-Class proudly displayed its Mercedes-Benz grille and star hood ornament. Inside, the dashboard featured a waterfall of open-pore wood trim and a 12.8-inch touchscreen, complemented by a separate 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. The cabin was adorned with high-quality materials, meticulously fitted and assembled, offering a luxurious experience.

The 2021 MINI Cooper offered four powertrain options, each providing a unique driving experience. The base model featured a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine with 134 horsepower, while the Cooper S upgraded to a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 189 hp. The John Cooper Works (JCW) model boasted a 228-hp turbo-four, and the John Cooper Works GP reached 301 hp. All models came with front-wheel drive, with a six-speed manual standard for the Cooper and Cooper S, and an eight-speed automatic for the JCW GP. The MINI's small size contributed to its energetic feel, though the turbocharged four-cylinder engines offered more robust performance, especially at highway speeds. The JCW GP model delivered the best acceleration, akin to a rocket ship. However, the ride was stiff, making long drives less comfortable, though the car's agility in cornering provided an engaging driving experience. Fuel economy varied, with the Convertible being the most efficient at 28/37/31 mpg city/highway/combined.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class excelled in both business and pleasure driving. The S500 model featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six-cylinder engine with EQ Boost, adding up to 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque to the engine's 429 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque. The S580 model started with a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8, also benefiting from EQ Boost. Both models used a nine-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and standard 4Matic AWD. Despite their weight, the S500 and S580 were quick, with 0-60 mph times of 4.9 and 4.4 seconds, respectively. Handling was smooth and predictable, with powerful braking. The S500 achieved up to 21 mpg city/30 mpg highway/24 mpg combined, while the S580 was rated at 16 mpg city/25 mpg highway/19 mpg combined, supported by a 22.2-gallon fuel tank for fewer stops.

The 2021 MINI Cooper's interior reflected its heritage, with the rear seat more suited for cargo than passengers. The front seats were comfortable, offering decent head and legroom for average adults, though taller drivers might struggle with knee placement due to the dash shape. Interior storage was limited, with a small center console and door pockets. Hatchback models provided decent cargo space, with foldable back seats for additional storage. Convertible models had a small cargo hold under the folding top compartment, with minimal usable space in the back.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class excelled as an executive sedan, offering a roomy and comfortable cabin with ample storage. Second-row passengers enjoyed powered sun blinds and a Panorama Sunroof. The 13.8-cubic-foot trunk provided lushly carpeted storage space. The cabin featured six USB-C ports and a 115-volt power supply in the second row. Front seats offered heating, ventilation, massage, and memory functions, with additional luxury options available. The Executive Line for the S580 catered to chauffeured passengers with upgraded rear seats and entertainment systems. The doors opened wide, which could be challenging for seated passengers, but soft-close doors prevented slamming. The S-Class came with a four-year/50,000-mile warranty.

The 2021 MINI Cooper was not overly generous with standard features. The base model had a 6.5-inch screen, with an optional 8.8-inch unit offering SiriusXM, Apple CarPlay, and more. Optional features included a Harman Kardon sound system, automatic climate controls, and LED headlights. MINI included more physical controls, enhancing usability while driving, but did not offer Android Auto, leaving many users reliant on Bluetooth. The infotainment system used BMW's software, with a physical iDrive controller that was difficult to access due to tight space, making touch control a more practical option.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was packed with advanced technology. The 12.8-inch OLED screen served as the interface for the MBUX infotainment system, offering superior image quality and energy efficiency. The 12.3-inch LED virtual instrument panel provided crisp imagery with customizable themes. An optional 3D instrument cluster added depth and visual interest. The standard augmented video for navigation and available augmented reality HUD enhanced the driving experience. The Burmester 3D Surround sound system delivered high-fidelity audio, with an optional 4D system for an immersive experience. The EQ Boost and rear-axle steering system improved performance and maneuverability, with a turning radius comparable to a Toyota Corolla.

The 2021 MINI Cooper did not receive a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS, though it scored "Good" in crash tests. Headlight ratings were "Acceptable" or "Poor," and the LATCH system received a "Marginal" rating. The NHTSA had not rated the 2021 model. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and rear parking sensors, with optional features like front parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was equipped with extensive safety and driver assistance features. Magic Vision Control optimized windshield spray, while driver assistance included adaptive cruise control, active steering assist, and active brake assist. Pre-Safe systems prepared the car for imminent collisions. The S-Class also featured car-to-x communication for sharing road condition warnings. Executive-level safety upgrades included rear-passenger airbags and occupant restraint protection.