2008 BMW 318 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 BMW 318 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (160 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2008 BMW 318. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 325 kg more than 2008 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 E (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 318. (201 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 318 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 318 | E |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 68.2 mm |
| Top Speed | 219 km/hour | 223 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.2 seconds | 9.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
