1984 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2011 BMW X3
To start off, 2011 BMW X3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,837 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW X3 (256 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1984 Mercedes-Benz S. (201 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1984 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW X3 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1984 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1984 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 BMW X3 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, 2011 BMW X3 (560 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Mercedes-Benz S. (315 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2011 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Mercedes-Benz S | 2011 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | S | X3 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3837 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4648 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1881 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1675 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2810 mm |
