1971 BMW 3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz Vito
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz Vito 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz Vito. (120 HP @ 1800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz Vito.
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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz Vito, 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz Vito (300 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz Vito 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 Vito | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | Vito |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2151 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 164 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 78 L |
