1997 BMW 318 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 9 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 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1997 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 318 weights approximately 100 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz B.
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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B, 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 318 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 318 | B |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 54 L |
