1974 BMW 2.8 vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 2.8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 2.8 would be higher. At 3,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 2.8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 BMW 2.8 (187 HP) has 53 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 2.8 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 2.8 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. 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, 1974 BMW 2.8 (295 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. (206 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1974 BMW 2.8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 2.8 | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 2.8 | 230 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3293 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2810 mm |
