1984 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 BMW 320
To start off, 2012 BMW 320 is newer by 28 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, 1984 Mercedes-Benz S (201 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2012 BMW 320. (182 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1984 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 320.
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 BMW 320 (380 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Mercedes-Benz S. (315 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 320 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 | 2012 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | S | 320 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3837 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1384 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2810 mm |
