2003 BMW M3 vs. 1984 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,837 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1984 Mercedes-Benz S. (201 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1984 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 143 kg more than 2003 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, 1984 Mercedes-Benz S (315 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW M3. (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1984 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 1984 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 3837 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2860 mm |
