1988 BMW 530 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 530 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 530 (188 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz B. (138 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz B. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 530 weights approximately 158 kg more than 2011 Mercedes-Benz B. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 530 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1988 BMW 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz B, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz B (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 530. (261 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 530.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 530 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 530 | B |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 188 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 261 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 216 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1593 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2780 mm |
