1997 BMW S3 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 10 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1997 BMW S3. (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 282 kg more than 1997 BMW S3. 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (350 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW S3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S3 | C |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 258 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
