2001 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (317 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. (228 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 145 kg more than 2001 BMW M3.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 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, 2001 BMW M3 (330 Nm) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. (299 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2001 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | C |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4592 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1445 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2760 mm |
