1997 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 15 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (295 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 800 kg more than 1997 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (385 Nm) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | S |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 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 | 295 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 385 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 2100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3165 mm |
