1978 BMW 320 vs. 1944 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 1978 BMW 320 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1944 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1944 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 5,401 cc (8 cylinders), 1944 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 320 (641 HP @ 9000 RPM) has 461 more horse power than 1944 Mercedes-Benz 500. (180 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1944 Mercedes-Benz 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1944 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 1566 kg more than 1978 BMW 320.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 320 | 1944 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 320 | 500 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1944 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 5401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 641 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 2406 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 3300 mm |
