2002 BMW M3 vs. 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE
To start off, 2002 BMW M3 is newer by 40 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 3,997 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW M3 (444 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 326 more horse power than 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE. (118 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW M3 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 275 kg more than 2002 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, 2002 BMW M3 (480 Nm) has 291 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE. (189 Nm). This means 2002 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW M3 | 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | SE |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3997 cc | 2195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 189 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1375 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2760 mm |
