1973 BMW 3.3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 398 kg more than 1973 BMW 3.3.
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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW 3.3. (289 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3.3 | SL |
| 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 | 0 HP |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1848 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 80 L |
