2008 BMW 323 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 BMW 323 is newer by 5 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 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (276 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2008 BMW 323. (176 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 465 kg more than 2008 BMW 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 323. (230 Nm). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 323. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 2008 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:
| 2008 BMW 323 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 4266 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 229 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 7.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 12.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 88 L |
