1991 BMW 318 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW 318 would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 378 more horse power than 1991 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1590 kg more than 1991 BMW 318. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 456 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW 318. (175 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW 318 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 318 | SL |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 631 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
