2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2013 BMW 3 Series
To start off, 2013 BMW 3 Series is newer by 11 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 255 more horse power than 2013 BMW 3 Series. (238 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2013 BMW 3 Series. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 565 kg more than 2013 BMW 3 Series. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (801 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 451 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 BMW 3 Series. (350 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 BMW 3 Series.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 2013 BMW 3 Series | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | S | 3 Series |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 801 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2135 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4636 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 2031 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1429 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 60 L |
