1973 BMW 3.3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 38 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1973 BMW 3.3. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1973 BMW 3.3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 355 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 BMW 3.3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW 3.3. (289 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz E 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 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3.3 | E |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3295 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1805 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 80 L |
