1995 BMW S3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 11 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW S3 (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL. (221 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 729 kg more than 1995 BMW S3.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1995 BMW S3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (510 Nm) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW S3. (260 Nm). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW S3. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW S3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S3 | GL |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 2454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3080 mm |
