1972 BMW 3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 4,662 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (335 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 3 weights approximately 149 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 3 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 3 | GL |
Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 4662 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 335 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 460 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 92.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
Top Speed | 224 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1225 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 5100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1930 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1850 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 3080 mm |