1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2012 BMW 640
To start off, 2012 BMW 640 is newer by 28 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, 2012 BMW 640 (311 HP) has 186 more horse power than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. (125 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 640 should accelerate faster than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 640 weights approximately 380 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 2012 BMW 640 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 2012 BMW 640. 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, 2012 BMW 640 (630 Nm) has 385 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. (245 Nm). This means 2012 BMW 640 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2012 BMW 640 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. 2012 BMW 640 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2012 BMW 640 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | 300 | 640 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2998 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 311 HP |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 630 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 | 1790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4894 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1894 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1369 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2855 mm |
