1998 BMW 323 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 15 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), 2013 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E (511 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 342 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (169 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 410 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E (700 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 455 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | E |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 511 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 90 mm |
| Top Speed | 233 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 4.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4887 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 2071 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2874 mm |
