2009 BMW M3 vs. 1981 Mercedes-Benz G
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 289 more horse power than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 495 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
Because 1981 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Mercedes-Benz G 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, 2009 BMW M3 (401 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (193 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1981 Mercedes-Benz G | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | G |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 193 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 80.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2410 mm |
