1968 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2012 BMW M3
To start off, 2012 BMW M3 is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 305 more horse power than 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300. (109 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW M3 weights approximately 365 kg more than 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 2012 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300. (185 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
1968 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2012 BMW M3 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
Model | 300 | M3 |
Year Released | 1968 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2996 cc | 3999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 109 HP | 414 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 8300 RPM |
Torque | 185 Nm | 400 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 75.2 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.6 seconds | 5.3 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1885 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4615 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1803 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1392 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2761 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 63 L |