1996 BMW 535 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (311 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1996 BMW 535. (232 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 535.
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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (360 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 535. (320 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 535.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 535 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 535 | SL |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3430 cc | 3498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 232 HP | 311 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 360 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4582 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1298 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2560 mm |