1998 BMW 318 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz V
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz V 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 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 318 (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz V. (139 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 725 kg more than 1998 BMW 318.
Because 1998 BMW 318 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 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz V, 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz V (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz V 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 V | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 318 | V |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3010 mm |
