1998 BMW 318 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 10 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 935 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 330 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 318 | R |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 17.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 201 km/hour | 222 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.4 seconds | 8.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 2295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.3 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
