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 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (275 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 441 kg more than 2004 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW M3. (350 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 | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 4195 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 328 HP | 275 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 400 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 78.9 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1990 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5120 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1490 mm |