2009 BMW 325 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz V
To start off, 2009 BMW 325 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz V. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz V would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz V. (139 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 475 kg more than 2009 BMW 325.
Because 2009 BMW 325 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 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2009 BMW 325 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz V. (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz V.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 325 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz V | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 325 | V |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3010 mm |
