1988 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (221 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML. (215 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 790 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (245 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | ML |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2303 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 237 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 72 L |
