1998 BMW M vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW M would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW M (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano. (161 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW M should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano weights approximately 1380 kg more than 1998 BMW M.
Because 1998 BMW M is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 BMW M. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Viano (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW M. (340 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW M. 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW M has manual transmission. 1998 BMW M will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW M | 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M | Viano |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 88.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.4 seconds | 11.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3210 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 79 L |
