1971 BMW 3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 37 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 2,994 cc, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 310 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (300 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1971 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1971 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 3 | C |
Year Released | 1971 | 2008 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2994 cc |
Horse Power | 180 HP | 228 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 255 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 82.1 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.1:1 |
Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1690 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4550 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1470 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1730 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2720 mm |