1971 BMW 3 vs. 1977 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1977 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1977 Mercedes-Benz S. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1977 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 230 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
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, 1971 BMW 3 (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 1977 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 3 | S |
Year Released | 1971 | 1977 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2745 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 223 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1610 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2870 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 85 L |