2003 BMW M3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R 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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R (504 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 2003 BMW M3. (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 990 kg more than 2003 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz R 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 R 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R (630 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW M3. (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW M3. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R 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 R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | R |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 504 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 102.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 259 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.9 seconds | 5.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 2375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.4 L/100km | 16.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
