2006 BMW 320 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E

To start off, 2006 BMW 320 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,604 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (174 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2006 BMW 320. (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 310 kg more than 2006 BMW 320. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (425 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 320. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2006 BMW 320 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
Make BMW Mercedes-Benz
Model 320 E
Year Released 2006 2003
Body Type Station Wagon Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2171 cc 2604 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 168 HP 174 HP
Engine RPM 6100 RPM 4200 RPM
Torque 210 Nm 425 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80.1 mm 88 mm
Engine Stroke Size 72 mm 88.3 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 18.0:1
Acceleration 0-100mph 8.5 seconds 9.3 seconds
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1520 kg 1830 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4860 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1500 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2860 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 70 L