2003 BMW 730 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E

To start off, 2003 BMW 730 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 730 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 730 weights approximately 310 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 2003 BMW 730 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. (190 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 730 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. 2003 BMW 730 has automatic transmission and 1996 Mercedes-Benz E has manual transmission. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW 730 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 BMW 730 1996 Mercedes-Benz E
Make BMW Mercedes-Benz
Model 730 E
Year Released 2003 1996
Body Type Sedan Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2999 cc 1998 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 228 HP 134 HP
Engine RPM 5900 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 190 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3700 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84.1 mm 89.9 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 78.7 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.2:1 10.4:1
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1790 kg 1480 kg
Vehicle Length 5040 mm 4820 mm
Vehicle Width 1910 mm 1810 mm
Vehicle Height 1500 mm 1510 mm
Wheelbase Size 3000 mm 2840 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 70 L