1974 BMW 3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (201 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1974 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 3.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (500 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3. 2012 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | ML |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| 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 | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 8.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4803 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1796 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2916 mm |
