1988 BMW M3 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 22 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1988 BMW M3. (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 509 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.
Because 2010 Mercedes-Benz E is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz E will offer significantly more control. 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz E (349 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3. 2010 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. 2010 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | E |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4869 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1928 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1466 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2873 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 80 L |
