2001 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 11 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 88 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz S. (254 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz S.
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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (620 Nm) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW M3. (502 Nm). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | S |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 254 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 502 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 5096 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 90 L |
