2002 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 9 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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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, 2002 BMW M3 (355 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL. (300 Nm). This means 2002 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
2002 BMW M3 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | SL |
Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 338 HP | 228 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 355 Nm | 300 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4582 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1298 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2560 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 80 L |