1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196 vs. 2005 BMW 318
To start off, 2005 BMW 318 is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196 (277 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 2005 BMW 318. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196 should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 318 weights approximately 675 kg more than 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196.
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. 2005 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196 has manual transmission. 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196 | 2005 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | W 196 | 318 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2005 |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 277 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 720 kg | 1395 kg |
