1996 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 15 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 63 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz C. (263 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 172 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (620 Nm) has 315 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (305 Nm). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW M3 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | C |
Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
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 | 263 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 620 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 16.2:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1760 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4606 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1459 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2760 mm |