1971 BMW 3 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz V
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz V 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz V. (139 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 620 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
Because 1971 BMW 3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1971 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz V, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz V. (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz V.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz V | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | V |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 3010 mm |
