2001 BMW M3 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz V
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz V 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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 203 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz V. (139 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 405 kg more than 2001 BMW M3.
Because 2001 BMW M3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2001 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz V, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 292 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz V. (210 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz V. 2001 BMW M3 has automatic transmission and 2003 Mercedes-Benz V has manual transmission. 2003 Mercedes-Benz V 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 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz V | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | V |
Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2295 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 342 HP | 139 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 502 Nm | 210 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 2000 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1850 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3010 mm |