2006 BMW M3 vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2006 BMW M3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML would be higher. At 3,244 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML. (161 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW M3 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW M3. (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW M3. 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW M3 | 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | ML |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3244 cc | 2688 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 183 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.5 seconds | 11.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 72 L |
