2008 BMW X3 vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,998 cc (5 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (114 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 400 kg more than 2008 BMW X3.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 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, 2008 BMW X3 (246 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 246 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 2215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2870 mm |
