1995 BMW S3 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz V
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz V 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW S3 (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 199 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz V. (139 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 275 kg more than 1995 BMW S3.
Because 1995 BMW S3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1995 BMW S3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz V, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1995 BMW S3 (260 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz V. (210 Nm). This means 1995 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz V. 2003 Mercedes-Benz V 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 V will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW S3 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz V | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S3 | V |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3010 mm |
