2001 BMW M vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 2001 BMW M. (325 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW M. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 650 kg more than 2001 BMW M. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 450 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW M. (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW M. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW M has manual transmission. 2001 BMW M will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2001 BMW M | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M | SL |
Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3300 cc | 5513 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 325 HP | 493 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 800 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.3 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 2025 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.3 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 80 L |