1996 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E 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 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz E. (136 HP @ 2600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 103 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 E (360 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW M3 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz E | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | E |
Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3169 cc | 2143 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 328 HP | 136 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 360 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 16.2:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1632 kg | 1735 kg |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |