1984 BMW 323 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,314 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (168 HP @ 3000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1984 BMW 323. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 323.
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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 323. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 323. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1984 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 1984 BMW 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 BMW 323 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | C |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2314 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 16.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 218 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1459 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2760 mm |
