1974 BMW 3 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 33 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz ML (303 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1974 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 777 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.
Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz ML (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3. 2007 Mercedes-Benz ML 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. 2007 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 3 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | ML |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 303 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 2210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2920 mm |
