2005 BMW M3 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2005 BMW M3 is newer by 9 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 5,987 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 69 more horse power than 2005 BMW M3. (320 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 550 kg more than 2005 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 233 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW M3. (337 Nm). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
2005 BMW M3 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | S |
Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3244 cc | 5987 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 320 HP | 389 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 337 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 | 1690 kg | 2240 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1920 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2890 mm |