1995 BMW S3 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW S3 would be higher. At 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW S3 (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. (242 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 10 kg more than 1995 BMW S3.
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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW S3. (260 Nm). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW S3. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1995 BMW S3 has manual transmission. 1995 BMW S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW S3 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S3 | S |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3722 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3090 mm |
