1996 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 12 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 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 147 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C.
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, 1996 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | C |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| 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 | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
