2003 BMW M3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML

To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML. (268 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 800 kg more than 2003 BMW M3.

Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 BMW M3 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML
Make BMW Mercedes-Benz
Model M3 ML
Year Released 2003 2006
Body Type Coupe SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3168 cc 3491 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 3 valves
Horse Power 342 HP 268 HP
Engine RPM 7900 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 350 Nm 350 Nm
Torque RPM 4900 RPM 2400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 87 mm 92.9 mm
Engine Stroke Size 91 mm 86 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.5:1 10.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Top Speed 259 km/hour 225 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 4.9 seconds 8.4 seconds
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1385 kg 2185 kg
Vehicle Length 4500 mm 4790 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1920 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1780 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2920 mm
Fuel Consumption 8.4 L/100km 11.9 L/100km
Fuel Consumption City 17.8 L/100km 14.9 L/100km
Fuel Consumption Overall 11.4 L/100km 13.2 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 95 L


 

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