2009 BMW X3 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (268 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2009 BMW X3. (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 39 kg more than 2009 BMW X3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW X3. (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X3 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1836 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 88 L |
