2009 BMW M3 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (275 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 575 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, both vehicles can yield 401 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2002 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. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW M3 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | S |
Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3999 cc | 4266 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 414 HP | 275 HP |
Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 401 Nm | 401 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 84 mm |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.1 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
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 | 1895 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 5170 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3090 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 88 L |