1998 BMW 323 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 1998 BMW 323 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 323 (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 185 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1998 BMW 323 (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | C |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 85.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
