1971 BMW 3 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 30 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 5,438 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (342 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 920 kg more than 1971 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (510 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1971 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1971 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | ML |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 5438 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 342 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 2300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2720 mm |
