1997 BMW S3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 11 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 217 kg more than 1997 BMW S3.
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, 1997 BMW S3 (330 Nm) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (240 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. 2008 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S3 | C |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2597 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 258 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
