1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2012 BMW X3
To start off, 2012 BMW X3 is newer by 56 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW X3 (256 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300. (172 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X3 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 BMW X3 (560 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 305 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300. (255 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2012 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | 300 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 84 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14 seconds | 6.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1780 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4648 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1881 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1675 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 67 L |
