2004 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2003 BMW 330
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 330. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 330 would be higher. At 5,506 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 304 more horse power than 2003 BMW 330. (189 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 551 kg more than 2003 BMW 330. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW 330 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (800 Nm) has 400 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 330. (400 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 330.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | 2003 BMW 330 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | S | 330 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5506 cc | 2977 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2091 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 63 L |
