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 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 193 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (221 HP @ 5600 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 450 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, 2009 BMW M3 (401 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (310 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 | 3199 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 414 HP | 221 HP |
Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 401 Nm | 310 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 89.9 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 | 1770 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 |