1987 BMW 324 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW 324. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW 324 would be higher. At 4,964 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 189 more horse power than 1987 BMW 324. (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW 324. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 720 kg more than 1987 BMW 324. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1987 BMW 324. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW 324. (214 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW 324. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1987 BMW 324 has manual transmission. 1987 BMW 324 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 BMW 324 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 324 | S |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2443 cc | 4964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 6.5 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 | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.7 L/100km | 12.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 88 L |
