2003 BMW M3 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 1 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 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (241 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 565 kg more than 2003 BMW M3.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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, both vehicles can yield 350 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 241 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 259 km/hour | 241 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.9 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 88 L |
