2003 BMW 330 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220
To start off, 2003 BMW 330 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 330 (184 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. (58 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 330 weights approximately 430 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW 330 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 BMW 330 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 284 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. (126 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 330 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 330 | 220 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 58 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 21.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1805 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
