2008 BMW X3 vs. 1972 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 324 kg more than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2008 BMW X3 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1972 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | E |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1416 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2760 mm |
