1973 BMW 3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 36 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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 315 more horse power than 1973 BMW 3. (203 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1973 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1560 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.
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 SL (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 344 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW 3. (287 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
1973 BMW 3 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 3 | SL |
Year Released | 1973 | 2009 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3153 cc | 6208 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 203 HP | 518 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6800 RPM |
Torque | 287 Nm | 631 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 2830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |