1979 BMW 320 vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 BMW 320 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 BMW 320 (641 HP @ 9000 RPM) has 423 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. (218 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 weights approximately 760 kg more than 1979 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:
| 1979 BMW 320 | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 320 | 420 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 641 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2850 mm |
