2003 Mercedes-Benz V vs. 2004 BMW 318
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz V. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz V would be higher. At 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 318 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz V. (139 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 605 kg more than 2004 BMW 318.
Because 2004 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 2004 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz V (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz V will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 318. 2004 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 2003 Mercedes-Benz V has manual transmission. 2003 Mercedes-Benz V will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz V | 2004 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | V | 318 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2295 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3010 mm | 2710 mm |
