1978 BMW 725 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 725 would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 456 more horse power than 1978 BMW 725. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 725.
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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,001 Nm) has 786 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 725. (215 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 725.
Compare all specifications:
1978 BMW 725 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 725 | SL |
Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2495 cc | 5980 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 604 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 215 Nm | 1001 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 93 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2570 mm |