2008 BMW X5 vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 2008 BMW X5 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 4,797 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X5 (355 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 246 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. (109 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X5 weights approximately 825 kg more than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 BMW X5 (490 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 305 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. (185 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. 2008 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 has manual transmission. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X5 | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X5 | 230 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4797 cc | 2305 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 355 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 490 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 93.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2200 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 93 L | 65 L |
