1997 BMW M3 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 240 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 320 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 (401 Nm) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW M3 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | 500 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 4973 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 240 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4750 RPM |
Torque | 236 Nm | 401 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 8.8:1 |
Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 228 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1620 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2940 mm |