1998 BMW 323 vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,688 cc (5 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 323 (170 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML. (161 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 67 kg more than 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML (400 Nm) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (246 Nm). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323. 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | ML |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2688 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 246 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 183 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1547 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2860 mm |
