1995 BMW 317 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW 317 would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1995 BMW 317. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 835 kg more than 1995 BMW 317. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW 317. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1995 BMW 317 has manual transmission. 1995 BMW 317 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW 317 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 317 | C |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
