2008 BMW 120 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 BMW 120 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 555 kg more than 2008 BMW 120.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 120. (201 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 120 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 120 | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 190 HP |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1440 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
