1996 BMW M3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 10 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 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz R. (187 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 632 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R 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 R (441 Nm) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (305 Nm). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | R |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 441 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.2 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 2220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2990 mm |
