1988 BMW M3 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz E

To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 19 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 4,964 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz E (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1988 BMW M3. (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 489 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz E (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3. 2007 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1988 BMW M3 2007 Mercedes-Benz E
Make BMW Mercedes-Benz
Model M3 E
Year Released 1988 2007
Body Type Coupe Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2302 cc 4964 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 192 HP 302 HP
Engine RPM 6750 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 230 Nm 460 Nm
Torque RPM 4750 RPM 2700 RPM
Engine Bore Size 93.4 mm 97 mm
Engine Stroke Size 84 mm 84 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 10.0:1
Top Speed 227 km/hour 250 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1296 kg 1785 kg
Vehicle Length 4350 mm 4860 mm
Vehicle Width 1690 mm 1500 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1830 mm
Wheelbase Size 2570 mm 2860 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 58 L 80 L