1998 BMW 323 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 8 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 2,987 cc, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (170 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 238 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.
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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (511 Nm) has 265 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (246 Nm). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323. 2006 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | C |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2987 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 246 Nm | 511 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 241 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1547 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2860 mm |
