2002 BMW 318 vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 2002 BMW 318 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 (134 HP) has 21 more horse power than 2002 BMW 318. (113 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 2002 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 178 kg more than 2002 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 (206 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW 318. (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW 318 | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 318 | 230 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 72 L |
