1984 BMW 316 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 316 would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML (215 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1984 BMW 316. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1000 kg more than 1984 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1984 BMW 316. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 316. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 BMW 316 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 316 | ML |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1767 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 72 L |
