1973 BMW 3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 38 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1973 BMW 3. (203 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1973 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW 3. (287 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 BMW 3. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1973 BMW 3 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 3 | C |
Year Released | 1973 | 2011 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3153 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 203 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 287 Nm | 370 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4606 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1392 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2760 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 66 L |