2009 BMW M3 vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,520 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 205 kg more than 2009 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (378 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW M3 | 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | S |
Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3999 cc | 4520 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 414 HP | 223 HP |
Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 378 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 85 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1730 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2870 mm |