1997 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 12 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 72 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz E. (168 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1532 kg more than 1997 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 2009 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | E |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 2832 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2860 mm |
