2001 BMW M3 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 4 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 141 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz S. (201 HP @ 1800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 175 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 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz S. (479 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | S |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3220 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Torque | 502 Nm | 479 Nm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2910 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 88 L |
