1990 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW M3 (234 HP) has 13 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz E. (221 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 539 kg more than 1990 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 E (300 Nm) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW M3. (240 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW M3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | E |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2467 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 234 HP | 221 HP |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1799 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2860 mm |
