2008 BMW M3 vs. 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 66 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (339 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 261 more horse power than 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320. (78 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320 weights approximately 280 kg more than 2008 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, 2008 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320. (223 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | 320 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1942 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 3310 mm |
