1998 BMW 316 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL

To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 9 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL (215 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (106 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1209 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.

Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 316. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL will offer significantly more control. 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL (540 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 375 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316. 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 BMW 316 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL
Make BMW Mercedes-Benz
Model 316 GL
Year Released 1998 2007
Body Type Hatchback SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1895 cc 2987 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 106 HP 215 HP
Engine RPM 5300 RPM 3800 RPM
Torque 165 Nm 540 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 1400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 85 mm 83 mm
Engine Stroke Size 83.5 mm 92 mm
Top Speed 192 km/hour 210 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 11.9 seconds 9.5 seconds
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 7 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1250 kg 2459 kg
Vehicle Length 4220 mm 5090 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1850 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1930 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 3080 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 100 L