1990 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 21 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1990 BMW M3. (238 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 891 kg more than 1990 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW M3. (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW M3. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW M3 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | S |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2467 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 2800 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 | 1200 kg | 2091 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.5 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 90 L |
