1998 BMW 320 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (303 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 169 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1100 kg more than 1998 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 320. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (700 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 419 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (281 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 320 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 320 | GL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1951 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 303 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 2550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.7 L/100km | 11.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 100 L |
