1998 BMW 323 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 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 5,500 cc (12 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 342 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 655 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (829 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 584 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323. 2012 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 323 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 323 | S |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 5500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 510 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 829 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 2250 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 5245 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1872 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1473 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3165 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |