2003 BMW 318 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 3 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 4,965 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML (288 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 2003 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 820 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML (440 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 265 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 318. (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 318. 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 318 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 318 | ML |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 4965 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 288 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 2210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 83 L |
