1998 BMW 320 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 13 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML (210 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 780 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 320. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML (542 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 262 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 320 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 320 | ML |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1951 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 542 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1476 kg | 2256 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1816 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2913 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 5.6 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.2 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 95 L |
