2004 BMW M3 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 BMW M3 is newer by 2 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 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (241 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 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 261 kg more than 2004 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:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | S |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3722 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 241 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 88 L |
