2008 BMW X3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW X3 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 123 kg more than 2011 Mercedes-Benz E.
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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | E |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1642 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 66 L |
