1990 BMW M3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 16 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW M3 (238 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz E. (187 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 655 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW M3. (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | E |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2467 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.5 seconds | 9.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
