1998 BMW 318 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 605 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 318. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 318 | S |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.2 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 88 L |
