1989 BMW 316 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1989 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1989 BMW 316.
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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW 316. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1989 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1989 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1989 BMW 316 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 316 | SL |
Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 228 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 141 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4582 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1298 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2560 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |