1999 BMW 330 vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 1999 BMW 330 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (219 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1999 BMW 330. (184 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 330 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420.
Because 1999 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 BMW 330 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, 1999 BMW 330 (400 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 330 | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 330 | 420 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 219 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 329 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2460 mm |
