1998 BMW 323 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 7 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 2,685 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (175 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (170 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 133 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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, 1998 BMW 323 (246 Nm) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (240 Nm). This means 1998 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | C |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2685 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 246 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 68.2 mm |
| Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 219 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1547 kg | 1680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
