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 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (216 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1988 BMW M3. (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 234 kg more than 1988 BMW M3. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (300 Nm) has 70 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 | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 62 L |
