1999 BMW 318 vs. 1981 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1999 BMW 318 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 318 (192 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. (154 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 285 kg more than 1999 BMW 318.
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, 1999 BMW 318 (355 Nm) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm). This means 1999 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
1999 BMW 318 | 1981 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 318 | S |
Year Released | 1999 | 1981 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 192 HP | 154 HP |
Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 355 Nm | 223 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1560 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 5030 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2950 mm |