2003 BMW X3 vs. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 3,839 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 (205 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2003 BMW X3. (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 315 kg more than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. 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 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. (315 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | 380 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 3839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1930 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 5140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 90 L |
