1997 BMW M3 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 8 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 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (247 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 455 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW M3 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | SL |
Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3722 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 247 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 236 Nm | 350 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1755 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |