2008 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW M3 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 2008 BMW M3. (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 525 kg more than 2008 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 465 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW M3. (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW M3. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 830 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.5 seconds | 4.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 2180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 3170 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.1 L/100km | 14.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 90 L |
