1978 BMW 725 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 31 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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 370 more horse power than 1978 BMW 725. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 416 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 725. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 725 | SL |
Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2495 cc | 6208 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 518 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
Torque | 215 Nm | 631 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
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 |