1995 BMW 317 vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1995 BMW 317 is newer by 10 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 3,839 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz S (201 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1995 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 230 kg more than 1995 BMW 317. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz S (316 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW 317.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW 317 | 1985 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 317 | S |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 3839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 316 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2860 mm |
