1971 BMW 3 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 42 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 6,000 cc (12 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S (613 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 433 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 895 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S (1,001 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 746 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | S |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 6000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 613 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 1001 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 2275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5252 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2120 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1488 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 3165 mm |
