1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2011 BMW 328
To start off, 2011 BMW 328 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,005 cc (5 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 328 (230 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. (80 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 328 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 328 weights approximately 180 kg more than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW 328 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 BMW 328 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, 2011 BMW 328 (271 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. (171 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 328 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2011 BMW 328 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | 300 | 328 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3005 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1783 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1394 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 61 L |
