1998 BMW 323 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 14 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 4,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL (335 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (170 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 878 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL (459 Nm) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (246 Nm). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 323 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 323 | GL |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 4700 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 335 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 246 Nm | 459 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1547 kg | 2425 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5098 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1989 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1839 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3076 mm |