2002 BMW 318 vs. 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196
To start off, 2002 BMW 318 is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196 (276 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 2002 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196 should accelerate faster than 2002 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW 318 weights approximately 582 kg more than 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW 318 | 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 318 | W 196 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1955 |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 720 kg |
