1972 BMW 3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 37 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 3,003 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (169 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 3 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | C |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3003 cc | 2148 cc |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 66 L |
