1996 BMW 332 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 332. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 332 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 332 (323 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz S. (269 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 332 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 365 kg more than 1996 BMW 332.
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, both vehicles can yield 350 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 332 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 332 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 332 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 332 | S |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 323 HP | 269 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3170 mm |
