1998 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 BMW X3
To start off, 2012 BMW X3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW X3 (311 HP @ 3300 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X3 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 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, 2012 BMW X3 (630 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 360 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 BMW X3 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
Model | S | X3 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2799 cc | 2993 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 190 HP | 311 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 630 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 84 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 1925 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4648 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1881 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1675 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2810 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 67 L |