1996 BMW 318 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 318 would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (248 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1996 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 595 kg more than 1996 BMW 318. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 392 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 318. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 318 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 318 | S |
Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 248 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 168 Nm | 560 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 2040 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5050 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 88 L |