1998 BMW 318 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 11 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 1008 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 2009 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, 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R (510 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 320 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 2009 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 318 | R |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 2987 cc |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 222 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.9 seconds | 8.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 2298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1930 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
