1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2011 BMW 520
To start off, 2011 BMW 520 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,998 cc (5 cylinders), 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 520 (182 HP) has 57 more horse power than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. (125 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 520 weights approximately 285 kg more than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW 520 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2011 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2011 BMW 520 (380 Nm) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. (245 Nm). This means 2011 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2011 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2011 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | 300 | 520 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2998 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 182 HP |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4899 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2968 mm |
