1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 2012 BMW X5
To start off, 2012 BMW X5 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW X5 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. (109 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X5 weights approximately 875 kg more than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW X5 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW X5 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, 2012 BMW X5 (406 Nm @ 1300 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. (185 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. 2012 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 has manual transmission. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 2012 BMW X5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | 230 | X5 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2305 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 406 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 2250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4854 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1933 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1775 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2933 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 85 L |
