1996 BMW 332 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 17 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (523 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 1996 BMW 332. (323 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 332. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 285 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 450 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 332. (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 332.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 332 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 332 | SL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 323 HP | 523 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4633 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 2099 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2585 mm |
