2001 BMW M3 vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 95 kg more than 2001 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, 2001 BMW M3 (502 Nm) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2001 BMW M3 has automatic transmission and 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW M3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2001 BMW M3 | 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | SL |
Year Released | 2001 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2962 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 342 HP | 228 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 502 Nm | 267 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1690 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |