1990 BMW 316 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW 316 (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. (94 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo weights approximately 345 kg more than 1990 BMW 316.
Because 1990 BMW 316 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1990 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316. 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 316 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 316 | Vaneo |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2910 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |
