1973 BMW 3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 39 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, 1973 BMW 3 (203 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B. (136 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B.
Because 1973 BMW 3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1973 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 B (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW 3. (287 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
1973 BMW 3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz B | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 3 | B |
Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3153 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 203 HP | 136 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 287 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4359 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1557 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2699 mm |