1997 BMW M3 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 750 kg more than 1997 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (570 Nm) has 334 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW M3 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | SL |
Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 5987 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 389 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 236 Nm | 570 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 2050 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |