1996 BMW 332 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 332. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 332 would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 281 more horse power than 1996 BMW 332. (323 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 332. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 390 kg more than 1996 BMW 332. 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,001 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 651 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 332. (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 332. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 332 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 332 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 332 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 332 | SL |
Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 5980 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 323 HP | 604 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 1001 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |