1971 BMW 3 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 31 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 620 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 3 | S |
Year Released | 1971 | 2002 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 4966 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 254 Nm | 460 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 2000 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 5170 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 3090 mm |