1997 BMW M3 vs. 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. (118 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE weights approximately 220 kg more than 1997 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. Let's talk about torque, 1997 BMW M3 (236 Nm) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. (189 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW M3 | 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | SE |
Year Released | 1997 | 1961 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2193 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 118 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 236 Nm | 189 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 8.7:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1520 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2760 mm |