2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 BMW X3
To start off, 2012 BMW X3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW X3 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (189 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X3 weights approximately 511 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 BMW X3 (406 Nm @ 1200 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (260 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 2012 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | C | X3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3000 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 406 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1404 kg | 1915 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 67 L |
