1996 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S 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 6,207 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 367 kg more than 1996 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (631 Nm) has 326 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (305 Nm). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | S |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 6207 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 631 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.2 mm | 102.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3170 mm |
