1971 BMW 3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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, 1971 BMW 3 (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 110 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (270 Nm) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (254 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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 C | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 3 | C |
Year Released | 1971 | 2004 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2148 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 254 Nm | 270 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 88.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 88.3 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 18.0:1 |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 11.7 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1490 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2720 mm |