1992 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW M3 (282 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. (242 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 290 kg more than 1992 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 BMW M3. (320 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
1992 BMW M3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | SL |
Year Released | 1992 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2990 cc | 3722 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 282 HP | 242 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1755 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |