2003 BMW M3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2003 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 343 kg more than 2003 BMW M3. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW M3. (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW M3. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW M3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | C |
Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2993 cc | 3497 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 268 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 92.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1785 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4860 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 89 L |