1976 BMW 3.3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 BMW 3.3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 BMW 3.3 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1976 BMW 3.3. (194 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1976 BMW 3.3.
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 C (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 BMW 3.3. (285 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 BMW 3.3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 BMW 3.3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3.3 | C |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3295 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 194 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 78 L | 66 L |
