1998 BMW 317 vs. 2005 Mercury Sable
To start off, 2005 Mercury Sable is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 317 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercury Sable is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercury Sable (154 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercury Sable should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercury Sable weights approximately 216 kg more than 1998 BMW 317. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 317 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 317. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercury Sable, 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, 2005 Mercury Sable (251 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercury Sable will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 317. 2005 Mercury Sable has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 317 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 317 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercury Sable will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 317 | 2005 Mercury Sable | |
Make | BMW | Mercury |
Model | 317 | Sable |
Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1665 cc | 2986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 154 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4900 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 251 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3950 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1571 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2900 mm |