1998 BMW 318 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 5 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (469 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 379 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 545 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 318 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 318 | E |
Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1665 cc | 5439 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 469 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 460 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1835 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4820 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2860 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |