2001 BMW M3 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. (247 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 155 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 (355 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2001 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2001 BMW M3 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | S |
Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3724 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 326 HP | 247 HP |
Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 355 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.5 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5050 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2890 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.1 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 88 L |