1990 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2010 BMW 325
To start off, 2010 BMW 325 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2010 BMW 325. (215 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2010 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 75 kg more than 2010 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 BMW 325 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 BMW 325 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, 2010 BMW 325 (270 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2010 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2010 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | SL | 325 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 267 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 63 L |
