1983 BMW 323 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 22 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 2,597 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1983 BMW 323. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1051 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML (370 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 323. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 323 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | ML |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2315 cc | 2597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.8 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 11.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1127 kg | 2178 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.9 L/100km | 9.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 83 L |
