1986 BMW 316 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (148 HP) has 62 more horse power than 1986 BMW 316. (86 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 775 kg more than 1986 BMW 316. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW 316 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 316 | E |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
