2003 BMW X5 vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350
To start off, 2003 BMW X5 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X5 (338 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. (200 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X5 weights approximately 600 kg more than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X5 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 X5 (400 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X5 | 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X5 | 350 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 3499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 286 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2195 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2830 mm |
