2004 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW M3 would be higher. At 5,459 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (383 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2004 BMW M3. (317 HP @ 7250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 670 kg more than 2004 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (530 Nm) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW M3. (355 Nm). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | GL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 5459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 383 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 90.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 2445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.2 L/100km | 13.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 100 L |
