2009 BMW M3 vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz S. (302 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 534 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW M3. (401 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW M3. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW M3 | 1999 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | S |
Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3999 cc | 4966 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 414 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 401 Nm | 460 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 84 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1854 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 5170 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3090 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 88 L |