1971 BMW 3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 35 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 4,261 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 507 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.
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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 3 | S |
Year Released | 1971 | 2006 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 4261 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 275 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 254 Nm | 400 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 11.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1887 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 5170 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 3090 mm |