1983 BMW 323 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 323 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1983 BMW 323. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 873 kg more than 1983 BMW 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1983 BMW 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 323. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 323. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1983 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 1983 BMW 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 323 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | S |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2315 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1127 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 88 L |
