2005 BMW 318 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2005 BMW 318 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML (232 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 2005 BMW 318. (149 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 790 kg more than 2005 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 BMW 318. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML (345 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 318 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 318 | ML |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 218 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 9.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 2185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 83 L |
