2006 BMW X3 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2006 BMW X3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 7,410 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E (612 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 385 more horse power than 2006 BMW X3. (227 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 215 kg more than 2006 BMW X3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E (848 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 557 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW X3. (291 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW X3. 1998 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW X3 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW X3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW X3 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | E |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 7410 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 612 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 848 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 325 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 2050 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 75 L |
