2008 BMW M3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,982 cc (12 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (605 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 2008 BMW M3. (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 55 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,001 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 601 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW M3. (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW M3. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW M3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | SL |
Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3999 cc | 5982 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 414 HP | 605 HP |
Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 1001 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 82.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 93 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.8 seconds | 4.2 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1600 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.2 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |