1971 BMW 3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 33 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 105 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A.
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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 3 | A |
Year Released | 1971 | 2004 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2034 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 180 HP | 190 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 255 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 94 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 227 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1275 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2600 mm |