1996 BMW 325 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 325 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1996 BMW 325. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 400 kg more than 1996 BMW 325. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 325. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 325. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 325 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:
| 1996 BMW 325 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 325 | E |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1830 mm |
