2005 BMW X5 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2005 BMW X5 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz S (218 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2005 BMW X5. (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW X5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW X5 weights approximately 575 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2005 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 214 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. (306 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2005 BMW X5 has manual transmission. 2005 BMW X5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW X5 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X5 | S |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 3818 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 520 Nm | 306 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 71.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2170 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2950 mm |
