2003 BMW M3 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 10 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 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL (423 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2003 BMW M3. (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1060 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL (700 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 350 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW M3. (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | GL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | electric |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 423 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 259 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.9 seconds | 5.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 2445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3075 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.4 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 17.8 L/100km | 18.1 L/100km |
