2003 BMW M3 vs. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400. (286 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 weights approximately 619 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, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 (410 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW M3. (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | 400 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 286 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 259 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.9 seconds | 7.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 2004 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3150 mm |
