1989 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 BMW X3
To start off, 2012 BMW X3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW X3 (256 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X3 weights approximately 185 kg more than 1989 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 X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 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 X3 (560 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 293 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 BMW X3 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
Model | SL | X3 |
Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2962 cc | 2993 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 256 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 267 Nm | 560 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88.6 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 84 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1875 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4648 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1881 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1675 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2810 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 67 L |