1995 BMW S3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW S3 would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 266 more horse power than 1995 BMW S3. (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 395 kg more than 1995 BMW S3. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,000 Nm) has 740 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW S3. (260 Nm). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW S3. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1995 BMW S3 has manual transmission. 1995 BMW S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW S3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S3 | SL |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 604 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 1000 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 2120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2570 mm |
