1998 BMW 323 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 6 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 4,964 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (170 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 433 kg more than 1998 BMW 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm) has 214 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (246 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | S |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 4964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 246 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1547 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2840 mm |
