1973 BMW 3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,153 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (216 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1973 BMW 3. (203 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1973 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1189 kg more than 1973 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (540 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 253 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW 3. (287 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 BMW 3. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1973 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1973 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | GL |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3153 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 287 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 2459 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 100 L |
