2003 BMW X3 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,972 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 (242 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2003 BMW X3. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 300 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 (401 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | 500 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 4972 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 90 L |
