1998 BMW 318 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 14 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B (120 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B should accelerate faster 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B, 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B (200 Nm @ 1250 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 318 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz B | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 318 | B |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1595 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 200 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4359 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1557 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2699 mm |