2004 BMW M3 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 BMW M3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,985 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2004 BMW M3. (317 HP @ 7250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 405 kg more than 2004 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (570 Nm) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW M3. (355 Nm). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
2004 BMW M3 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | S |
Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3169 cc | 5985 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 317 HP | 389 HP |
Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 355 Nm | 570 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 80.2 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 2180 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5120 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 100 L |