2004 BMW M3 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 BMW M3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,786 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (362 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2004 BMW M3. (317 HP @ 7250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 265 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (530 Nm) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW M3. (355 Nm). This means 1998 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 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | S |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 5786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 2040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.4 L/100km | 9.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.9 L/100km | 19.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.2 L/100km | 13.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 88 L |
