1972 BMW 3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 40 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 201 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 471 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (500 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | E |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 16.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 224 km/hour | 232 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1845 kg |
