1974 BMW 3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 3 would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 404 more horse power than 1974 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 677 kg more than 1974 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (998 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 728 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1974 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1974 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1974 BMW 3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 3 | SL |
Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 5980 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 604 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 998 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 3.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 2110 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2040 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2570 mm |