1995 BMW 317 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 7 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 5,437 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 404 more horse power than 1995 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 650 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 510 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW 317. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW 317 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 317 | S |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 5437 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 2005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2970 mm |
