1974 BMW 3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 38 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 318 more horse power than 1974 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 419 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (699 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 429 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1974 BMW 3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz E | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 3 | E |
Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 5500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 518 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 699 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1852 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4887 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1872 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1443 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2875 mm |