1988 BMW M3 vs. 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 1988 BMW M3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,998 cc (5 cylinders), 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (221 HP) has 96 more horse power than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. (125 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
Because 1988 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300, 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, both vehicles can yield 245 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | 300 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2303 cc | 2998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 125 HP |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2800 mm |
