2003 BMW M3 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL
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 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, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. (242 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 370 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, 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.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW M3 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | SL |
Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3168 cc | 3724 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 342 HP | 242 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 | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.9 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1755 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |