2009 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW M3 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 246 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz E. (168 HP @ 3000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 315 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
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, both vehicles can yield 400 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | E |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 16.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.9 seconds | 8.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1845 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
