1998 BMW M vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW M would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW M (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz C. (160 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW M should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 20 kg more than 1998 BMW M.
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, 1998 BMW M (340 Nm) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz C. (244 Nm). This means 1998 BMW M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz C. 2001 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW M has manual transmission. 1998 BMW M will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW M | 2001 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M | C |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2688 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 88 L |
