1997 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is newer by 14 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 52 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. (188 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter weights approximately 1298 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (440 Nm) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1997 BMW M3 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
Make BMW Mercedes-Benz
Model M3 Sprinter
Year Released 1997 2011
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3201 cc 3000 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 240 HP 188 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 3800 RPM
Torque 236 Nm 440 Nm
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1300 kg 2598 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 5906 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 2024 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 2446 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 3665 mm