1998 BMW 323 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 13 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (170 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 544 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (530 Nm) has 284 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (246 Nm). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323. 2011 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | S |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 246 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1547 kg | 2091 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3165 mm |
