2003 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 9 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2003 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW M3.
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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW M3. (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW M3. 2012 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW M3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | C |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2993 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 370 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4606 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1392 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2760 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 66 L |