1998 BMW 317 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 12 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML (210 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 901 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 317. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML (542 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 352 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 317. 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML 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. 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 317 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 317 | ML |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 542 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 2256 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1816 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2913 mm |
