1998 BMW 318 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 268 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1070 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 318. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 361 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (169 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 318 | GL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 2515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5098 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1989 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1839 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3076 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 100 L |
