1974 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2011 BMW M3
To start off, 2011 BMW M3 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 320 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz E. (94 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW M3 weights approximately 325 kg more than 1974 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2011 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 241 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz E. (159 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2011 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz E | 2011 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | E | M3 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1987 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1424 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2761 mm |
