1999 BMW 323 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML (187 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1999 BMW 323. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 653 kg more than 1999 BMW 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 BMW 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML (440 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 323 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | ML |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1457 kg | 2110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 95 L |
