1982 BMW 323 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 14 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 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (389 HP) has 241 more horse power than 1982 BMW 323. (148 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1982 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1020 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.
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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 365 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 BMW 323. (205 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 BMW 323 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | S |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2315 cc | 5987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 389 HP |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.8 mm | 80.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 2240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2890 mm |
