1997 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 11 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 125 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz B. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz B. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 10 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
Because 1997 BMW M3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz B, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1997 BMW M3 (236 Nm) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz B. (155 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz B.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW M3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz B | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | B |
Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1699 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 236 Nm | 155 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 184 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1310 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4280 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1610 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2780 mm |