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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 265 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (228 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 370 kg more than 2008 BMW X3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 (801 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 321 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 | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 801 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 87 mm |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 4.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 2135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 88 L |
