1982 BMW 323 vs. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 (185 HP) has 37 more horse power than 1982 BMW 323. (148 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1982 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 310 kg more than 1982 BMW 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1982 BMW 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 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, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 (260 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 BMW 323. (205 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 BMW 323 | 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | 300 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2315 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 185 HP |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 88.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.8 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 102 L | 72 L |
