2009 BMW 323 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 323 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz B. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz B.
Because 2009 BMW 323 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 2009 BMW 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz B, 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, 2009 BMW 323 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz B. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz B.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 323 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | B |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.8 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.5 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 54 L |
