2006 BMW X3 vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2006 BMW X3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (231 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2006 BMW X3. (227 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW X3 weights approximately 347 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Because 2006 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 BMW X3 (291 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. (273 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2006 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW X3 | 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 273 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 88.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.7 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2810 mm |
