1996 BMW M3 vs. 1962 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 1996 BMW M3 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1962 Mercedes-Benz 300. (158 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1962 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 298 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 1962 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | 300 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1632 kg | 1930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3160 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 71 L |
