2003 BMW X3 vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,789 cc (12 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (362 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 2003 BMW X3. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 145 kg more than 2003 BMW X3. 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (540 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 295 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW X3. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW X3 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW X3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 1999 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 5789 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 87 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 88 L |
