1998 BMW M 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 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW M would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW M (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (275 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW M should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 550 kg more than 1998 BMW M.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW M. 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 (410 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW M. (340 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW M. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW M | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M | S |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.4 seconds | 7.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 88 L |
