2003 BMW X3 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (151 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 475 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 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, 2003 BMW X3 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. 2003 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | C |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 62 L |
