1998 BMW 325 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 325 would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (216 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1998 BMW 325. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 400 kg more than 1998 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz C is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 325. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 325. (250 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 325. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 325 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 325 | C |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
