1997 BMW M3 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 5 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 3,221 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (201 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 625 kg more than 1997 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (500 Nm) has 264 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW M3 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | S |
Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3221 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 201 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 236 Nm | 500 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 18.0:1 |
Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1925 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5050 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2970 mm |