1999 BMW 320 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,143 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (168 HP @ 3000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1999 BMW 320. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 300 kg more than 1999 BMW 320. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 320. (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 320. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1999 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 1999 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 320 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 320 | E |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1951 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1670 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 80 L |
