1974 BMW 3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 35 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK (221 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1974 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 297 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK (510 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1974 BMW 3 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 3 | CLK |
Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2987 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 221 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 510 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 94 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 17.5:1 |
Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 242 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 8.6 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1730 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4640 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2720 mm |