2003 BMW M3 vs. 1987 Mercedes-Benz G
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 217 more horse power than 1987 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 495 kg more than 2003 BMW M3.
Because 1987 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Mercedes-Benz G 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, 2003 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mercedes-Benz G. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mercedes-Benz G.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 1987 Mercedes-Benz G | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | G |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 80.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2410 mm |
