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 294 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 35 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (270 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 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.6 seconds | 11.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
