2009 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 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 166 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. (248 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S.
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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW M3. (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW M3. 2004 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. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 248 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.7 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.9 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 88 L |
