1997 BMW S3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW S3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz B. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz B. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 67 kg more than 1997 BMW S3.
Because 1997 BMW S3 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 S3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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 S3 (330 Nm) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz B. (251 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz B.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S3 | B |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Top Speed | 258 km/hour | 183 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2780 mm |
