1978 BMW 730 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz G

To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz G is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 730 (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz G. (154 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW 730 weights approximately 364 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz G. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 BMW 730. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz G 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz G (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 730. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz G will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 730. 2008 Mercedes-Benz G has automatic transmission and 1978 BMW 730 has manual transmission. 1978 BMW 730 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz G will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1978 BMW 730 2008 Mercedes-Benz G
Make BMW Mercedes-Benz
Model 730 G
Year Released 1978 2008
Body Type Sedan SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2788 cc 2688 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 185 HP 154 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 3800 RPM
Torque 230 Nm 400 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 1800 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 18.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1510 kg 1146 kg
Vehicle Length 4870 mm 4670 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1870 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1940 mm
Wheelbase Size 2810 mm 2860 mm