1971 BMW 3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 38 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 110 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, 1971 BMW 3 (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (250 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 3 | C |
Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 181 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 254 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 85 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 8.5:1 |
Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 8.6 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1490 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2770 mm |