1985 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2010 BMW X3
To start off, 2010 BMW X3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 BMW X3 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2010 BMW X3 (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz S | 2010 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | S | X3 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4569 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1854 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1676 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2797 mm |
