2009 BMW M3 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,964 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. (302 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 220 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW M3. (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW M3. 2003 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW M3 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | S |
Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3999 cc | 4964 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 414 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 460 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.8 seconds | 6.3 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 | 1655 kg | 1875 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 5050 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2890 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 88 L |