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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 281 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (370 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (320 Nm). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW M3 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz E | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | E |
Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 370 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1761 kg |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 66 L |