1978 BMW 725 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 BMW 725 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 725 (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. (123 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 725 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo.
Because 1978 BMW 725 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 BMW 725. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1978 BMW 725 (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 BMW 725 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 725 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 725 | Vaneo |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 1898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2970 mm |
