1983 BMW M6 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW M6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW M6 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 211 more horse power than 1983 BMW M6. (282 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW M6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 535 kg more than 1983 BMW M6. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 466 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW M6. (334 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW M6. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1983 BMW M6 has manual transmission. 1983 BMW M6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW M6 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M6 | SL |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 334 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 2040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
