1998 BMW 316 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (106 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 195 kg more than 1998 BMW 316. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (240 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 316 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 316 | C |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
