1988 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,302 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (189 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 179 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (260 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (230 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | C |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 62 L |
