2002 BMW M3 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 11 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (523 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 2002 BMW M3. (338 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2002 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 250 kg more than 2002 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm) has 445 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW M3. (355 Nm). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW M3. 2002 BMW M3 has automatic transmission and 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW M3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW M3 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | SL |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 523 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4633 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2099 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2585 mm |
