1997 BMW M3 vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 2 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 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML. (161 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 855 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML (377 Nm) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | ML |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 377 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
