1998 BMW 330 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 330. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 330 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1998 BMW 330. (181 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 405 kg more than 1998 BMW 330. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 330. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 330. (390 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 330. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 330 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 330 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 330 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 330 | S |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 88 L |
