1997 BMW 318 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW 318 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. (101 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 318 weights approximately 77 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 BMW 318 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 1997 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1997 BMW 318 (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 318 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 318 | Vaneo |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1368 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 75 L |
