2008 BMW X3 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C

To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 255 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 BMW X3 (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW X3 2002 Mercedes-Benz C
Make BMW Mercedes-Benz
Model X3 C
Year Released 2008 2002
Body Type SUV Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3001 cc 1796 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 260 HP 141 HP
Engine RPM 6600 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 305 Nm 220 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 2500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 82 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 85 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.7:1 10.2:1
Top Speed 209 km/hour 223 km/hour
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1730 kg 1475 kg
Vehicle Length 4580 mm 4530 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1680 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2800 mm 2860 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 67 L 62 L