1982 BMW 323 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 21 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 2,604 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (174 HP) has 26 more horse power than 1982 BMW 323. (148 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1982 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 610 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (425 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 BMW 323. (205 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 BMW 323 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | E |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2315 cc | 2604 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 174 HP |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 425 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.8 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 102 L | 70 L |
