1971 BMW 3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 4,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (402 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 556 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (600 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 329 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 3 | CLS |
Year Released | 1971 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 4700 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 402 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 600 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1936 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4940 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1882 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1417 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2875 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 80 L |