1971 BMW 3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 404 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 1450 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL (1,001 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 730 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 3 | CL |
Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 5980 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 604 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 1001 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 2830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 5000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2890 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 88 L |