1972 BMW 3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,198 cc, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 321 kg more than 1972 BMW 3.
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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 1972 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1972 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | CLK |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3198 cc |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 224 km/hour | 236 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2700 mm |
