1974 BMW 3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 32 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (148 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 257 kg more than 1974 BMW 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (340 Nm) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | C |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 88.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 10.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2720 mm |
