2003 BMW X3 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW X3 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S (295 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2003 BMW X3. (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 61 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 2010 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, 2003 BMW X3 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mercedes-Benz S. (385 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2010 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 295 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 385 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1930 kg | 1991 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.3 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.1 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 90 L |
