1949 BMW 340 vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 BMW 340. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 BMW 340 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1949 BMW 340. (53 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1949 BMW 340. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 440 kg more than 1949 BMW 340. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 BMW 340 | 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 340 | SL |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2520 mm |
