2006 BMW M3 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C

To start off, 2006 BMW M3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 3,244 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (151 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW M3 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2006 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2006 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.

Compare all specifications:

2006 BMW M3 1996 Mercedes-Benz C
Make BMW Mercedes-Benz
Model M3 C
Year Released 2006 1996
Body Type Convertible Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3244 cc 2295 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 338 HP 151 HP
Engine RPM 7900 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 365 Nm 220 Nm
Torque RPM 4900 RPM 3700 RPM
Engine Bore Size 87 mm 90.9 mm
Engine Stroke Size 91 mm 88.4 mm
Top Speed 250 km/hour 209 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1655 kg 1365 kg
Vehicle Length 4500 mm 4490 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2740 mm 2970 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 62 L


 

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