1971 BMW 3 vs. 2009 Mercury Mariner
To start off, 2009 Mercury Mariner 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 Mercury Mariner (240 HP @ 6550 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercury Mariner should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercury Mariner weights approximately 545 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.
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, 2009 Mercury Mariner, 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, 2009 Mercury Mariner (302 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Mercury Mariner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2009 Mercury Mariner 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 Mercury Mariner will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2009 Mercury Mariner | |
Make | BMW | Mercury |
Model | 3 | Mariner |
Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2967 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 180 HP | 240 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6550 RPM |
Torque | 255 Nm | 302 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1925 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4460 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1730 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2630 mm |