1990 BMW M3 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW M3 would be higher. At 5,506 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 255 more horse power than 1990 BMW M3. (238 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 809 kg more than 1990 BMW M3. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm) has 560 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW M3. (240 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW M3 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | SL |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2467 cc | 5506 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 2009 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.5 L/100km | 18.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
