1971 BMW 3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 40 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 92 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz B. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz B. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 60 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz B, 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, 1971 BMW 3 (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz B. (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz B.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz B | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 3 | B |
Year Released | 1971 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1991 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 183 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1440 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4280 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1610 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2780 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 54 L |