2002 BMW M3 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200
To start off, 2002 BMW M3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 230 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200. (108 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW M3 weights approximately 245 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200. 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, 2002 BMW M3 (355 Nm) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200. (170 Nm). This means 2002 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200. 2002 BMW M3 has automatic transmission and 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200 has manual transmission. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW M3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW M3 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | 200 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 65 L |
