1978 BMW 320 vs. 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180
To start off, 1978 BMW 320 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 320 (641 HP @ 9000 RPM) has 596 more horse power than 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180. (45 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180 weights approximately 450 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 | 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 320 | 180 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1954 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1767 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 641 HP | 45 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2660 mm |
