2009 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 225 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (189 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C.
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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (260 Nm). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | C |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.7 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.9 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
