2006 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (333 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL. (210 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 930 kg more than 2006 BMW M3.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL (542 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW M3. (355 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW M3 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | GL |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 542 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 2500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5098 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1989 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1839 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 3076 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 10 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.9 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 100 L |
