2008 BMW X3 vs. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 (265 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 200 kg more than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500. 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, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 (404 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (246 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | 500 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 246 Nm | 404 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 85 mm |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2810 mm |
