2001 BMW 520 vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2001 BMW 520 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,998 cc (5 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (114 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 545 kg more than 2001 BMW 520.
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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
2001 BMW 520 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 520 | S |
Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2171 cc | 2998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 167 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 231 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 2215 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2870 mm |