2002 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW M3 would be higher. At 4,964 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. (302 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 385 kg more than 2002 BMW M3.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW M3. (355 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW M3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | S |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 4964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 88 L |
