2003 BMW 318 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (160 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2003 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 340 kg more than 2003 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 BMW 318. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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 C (240 Nm) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 318. (167 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 318. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 318 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 318 | C |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 2597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 68.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1640 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 62 L |
