1997 BMW M3 vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 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 162 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. (78 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 weights approximately 130 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 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. (172 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW M3 | 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | 240 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3005 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 78 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 236 Nm | 172 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 21.0:1 |
Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 148 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1430 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2760 mm |