2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 BMW M3
To start off, 2012 BMW M3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 240 kg more than 2012 BMW M3.
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 Mercedes-Benz S (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 BMW M3. (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 BMW M3. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2012 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2012 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 BMW M3 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
Model | S | M3 |
Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4266 cc | 3999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 275 HP | 414 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 8300 RPM |
Torque | 401 Nm | 400 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 75.2 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.3 seconds | 4.8 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1895 kg | 1655 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4615 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1803 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1424 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2761 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 63 L |