2006 BMW 323 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2006 BMW 323 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2006 BMW 323. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 323.
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 S (350 Nm) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 323. (230 Nm). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 323. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 323 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | S |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3722 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.8 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
