1996 BMW M3 vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz S. (302 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 222 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW M3 | 1999 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | S |
Year Released | 1996 | 1999 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3169 cc | 4966 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 328 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 460 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1632 kg | 1854 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5170 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3090 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 88 L |