2003 BMW X5 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 BMW X5 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X5 (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X5 weights approximately 570 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 (500 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 274 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X5 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X5 | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2180 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 93 L | 85 L |
