2004 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R. (268 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW M3 weights approximately 404 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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 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, 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 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | R |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 9.8 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 15.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 14 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
