2005 BMW X5 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2005 BMW X5 is newer by 26 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, 2005 BMW X5 (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (87 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW X5 weights approximately 540 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 2005 BMW X5 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, 2005 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, 2005 BMW X5 (520 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 348 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW X5 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X5 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 520 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2170 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 5350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 3430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 93 L | 65 L |
