1997 BMW S3 vs. 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE
To start off, 1997 BMW S3 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE. (118 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE weights approximately 7 kg more than 1997 BMW S3.
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 S3 (330 Nm) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE. (189 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S3 | SE |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 189 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2760 mm |
