2009 BMW M3 vs. 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1991 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, 2009 BMW M3 (295 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. (272 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2961 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 272 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
