1998 BMW 323 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 11 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 168 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1235 kg more than 1998 BMW 323.
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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | C |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
