1990 BMW 316 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL

To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (311 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 211 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1990 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (360 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1990 BMW 316 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
Make BMW Mercedes-Benz
Model 316 SL
Year Released 1990 2012
Body Type Sedan Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 3498 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 100 HP 311 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 141 Nm 360 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 4900 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


 

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