1987 BMW 320 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,143 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 BMW 320 (189 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. (168 HP @ 3000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C.
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 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW 320. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1987 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 1987 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 BMW 320 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 320 | C |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 16.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 218 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1459 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 66 L |
