1966 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 BMW X5
To start off, 2012 BMW X5 is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW X5 (244 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. (149 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X5 weights approximately 850 kg more than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW X5 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW X5 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 BMW X5 (540 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 344 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. (196 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 BMW X5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | SL | X5 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2306 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 244 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 2150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4857 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1933 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1776 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2933 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 85 L |
