2006 BMW X3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW X3 would be higher. At 5,500 cc (12 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 283 more horse power than 2006 BMW X3. (227 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 415 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (829 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 538 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW X3. (291 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW X3. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW X3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | S |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 829 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 2250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 90 L |
