2003 BMW X3 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (5 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (87 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 300 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 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, 2003 BMW X3 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 238 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2003 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW X3 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | X3 | 300 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2995 cc | 2996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 87 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 410 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 90.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 92.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 21.0:1 |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1930 kg | 1630 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 5350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3430 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 65 L |