1971 BMW 3 vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1989 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 18 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 36 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. (164 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 140 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 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 1989 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 3 | S |
Year Released | 1971 | 1989 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2599 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 164 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 228 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1520 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 5030 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2950 mm |