1994 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 BMW M3 would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1994 BMW M3. (281 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1994 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 449 kg more than 1994 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 BMW M3. (320 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 BMW M3. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1994 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1994 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1994 BMW M3 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | SL |
Year Released | 1994 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2990 cc | 5500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 281 HP | 382 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 530 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1914 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4582 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1816 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1298 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2560 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |