1997 BMW 318 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 13 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), 2010 Mercedes-Benz B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 114 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 25 kg more than 1997 BMW 318.
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, 2010 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, 1997 BMW 318 (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mercedes-Benz B. (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mercedes-Benz B.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 318 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 318 | B |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| 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 | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 165 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 | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 54 L |
