2002 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2013 BMW 3 Series. (238 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2013 BMW 3 Series. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 72 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.
Because 2013 BMW 3 Series is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 BMW 3 Series 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, 2013 BMW 3 Series (407 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 BMW 3 Series will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2013 BMW 3 Series has automatic transmission and 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 BMW 3 Series will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2013 BMW 3 Series | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
Model | SL | 3 Series |
Year Released | 2002 | 2013 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3724 cc | 2979 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 242 HP | 238 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 407 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.2 |
Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1683 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4636 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 2031 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1434 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2810 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |