1999 BMW 330 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 330. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 330 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1999 BMW 330. (184 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 330.
Because 1999 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 BMW 330 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, 1999 BMW 330 (400 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz S. (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz S. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1999 BMW 330 has manual transmission. 1999 BMW 330 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:
| 1999 BMW 330 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 330 | S |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5096 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 90 L |
