1995 BMW S3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 16 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW S3 (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz C. (228 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW S3 weights approximately 30 kg more than 2011 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1995 BMW S3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C 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 C (299 Nm) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW S3. (260 Nm). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW S3. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW S3 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S3 | C |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4592 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2761 mm |
