1996 BMW 325 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 325 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 342 more horse power than 1996 BMW 325. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 325 weights approximately 160 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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 (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 585 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 325. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 325. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 325 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 325 | SL |
Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2492 cc | 5513 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 510 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 830 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 87 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1225 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |