1998 BMW 316 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano is newer by 14 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 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano (161 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (106 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano weights approximately 1580 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 1998 BMW 316 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 1998 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano, 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316. 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 316 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 316 | Viano |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 88.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 11.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3210 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 79 L |
