2008 BMW X3 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
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 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,221 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (201 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 160 kg more than 2008 BMW X3.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (500 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (480 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 3221 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 88 L |
