2009 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 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 146 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (268 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 263 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | C |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.6 seconds | 7.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1788 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.9 L/100km | 10.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
