1988 BMW 316 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 316 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 1988 BMW 316. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 316 weights approximately 55 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz E.
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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (460 Nm) has 333 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 316. (127 Nm). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 316. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 316 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 316 | E |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 177 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15.6 seconds | 6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
