2004 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2011 BMW X3
To start off, 2011 BMW X3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,222 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW X3 (311 HP @ 3300 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. (201 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2011 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 BMW X3 (630 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. (500 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2011 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | 2011 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | S | X3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3222 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 5.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 1925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4648 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1881 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1675 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 6.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 67 L |
