1997 BMW 318 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 16 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E (298 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 1997 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 318.
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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E (370 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 318 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 318 | E |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 298 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
