1971 Austin 3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Austin 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Austin 3 would be higher. At 4,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL (429 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 306 more horse power than 1971 Austin 3. (123 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1971 Austin 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 605 kg more than 1971 Austin 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Austin 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 Mercedes-Benz CL (699 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 481 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Austin 3. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Austin 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Austin 3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | CL |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2910 cc | 4700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 429 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 2095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 5095 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2954 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 90 L |
