2008 BMW 330 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 BMW 330 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 330 (202 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 110 kg more than 2008 BMW 330.
Because 2008 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW 330 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, 2008 BMW 330 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 330 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 330 | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1780 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
