2004 BMW M3 vs. 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 BMW M3 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. (168 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW M3 weights approximately 189 kg more than 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 BMW M3 (350 Nm) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. (240 Nm). This means 2004 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
2004 BMW M3 | 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | SL |
Year Released | 2004 | 1970 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2778 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 328 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 240 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1360 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2410 mm |