1997 BMW M3 vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz E. (221 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 345 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz E is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz E will offer significantly more control. 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz E (321 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 1999 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW M3 | 1999 Mercedes-Benz E | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | E |
Year Released | 1997 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3198 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 221 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 236 Nm | 321 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1645 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2840 mm |