2001 BMW 318 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW 318 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 189 more horse power than 2001 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 435 kg more than 2001 BMW 318. 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 (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 318. (167 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 318. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2001 BMW 318 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:
| 2001 BMW 318 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 318 | E |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1735 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 80 L |
