2003 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 8 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz C. (203 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz C.
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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (500 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW M3. (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW M3. 2011 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW M3 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | C |
Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2993 cc | 2143 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 203 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 500 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 16.2:1 |
Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4606 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1459 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2760 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 66 L |