2001 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 8 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 5,512 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 2001 BMW M3. (326 HP @ 7900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 295 kg more than 2001 BMW M3. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 475 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW M3. (355 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW M3. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2001 BMW M3 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | SL |
Year Released | 2001 | 2009 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 5512 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 326 HP | 510 HP |
Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 355 Nm | 830 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.5 seconds | 4.8 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Consumption | 8.8 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 17.9 L/100km | 21.4 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.1 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |