1985 BMW 324 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 BMW 324. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 BMW 324 would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (276 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 1985 BMW 324. (85 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1985 BMW 324. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 695 kg more than 1985 BMW 324. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 BMW 324. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 248 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 BMW 324. (152 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 BMW 324. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1985 BMW 324 has manual transmission. 1985 BMW 324 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 BMW 324 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 324 | S |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 161 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15.5 seconds | 7.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.6 L/100km | 12.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 88 L |
