1973 BMW 3.3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 3.3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 3.3 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML (288 HP @ 2700 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1973 BMW 3.3. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1973 BMW 3.3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 690 kg more than 1973 BMW 3.3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 BMW 3.3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 ML (440 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW 3.3. (289 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 BMW 3.3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 3.3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3.3 | ML |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3295 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 288 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 222 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 2140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 83 L |
