2008 BMW X3 vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. (219 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 165 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 BMW X3 (480 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | 420 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 219 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 329 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2460 mm |
