2002 BMW 318 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz V
To start off, 2002 BMW 318 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz V. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz V would be higher. At 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz V (139 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2002 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz V should accelerate faster than 2002 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 530 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.
Because 2002 BMW 318 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2002 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz V, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2002 BMW 318 (281 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz V. (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz V.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW 318 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz V | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 318 | V |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3010 mm |
