1997 BMW S3 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 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 6 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz S. (254 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz S.
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 (620 Nm) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW S3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | S3 | S |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2987 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 260 HP | 254 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 330 Nm | 620 Nm |
Top Speed | 258 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1872 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1473 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3165 mm |