1996 BMW 540 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 540 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 211 more horse power than 1996 BMW 540. (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 540. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 165 kg more than 1996 BMW 540. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 540. (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 540. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 540 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 540 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 540 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 540 | SL |
Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4397 cc | 5439 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 282 HP | 493 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 440 Nm | 700 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2750 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1980 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.6 L/100km | 13.5 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |