1971 BMW 3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 41 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R (210 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R (542 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 287 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz R | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 3 | R |
Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2987 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 180 HP | 210 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Torque | 255 Nm | 542 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5156 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1958 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1661 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 3216 mm |