1981 BMW 520 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 520 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (469 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 346 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 615 kg more than 1981 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 520 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 520 | E |
Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 5439 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 469 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 460 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1835 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4820 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2860 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |