1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2010 BMW 120
To start off, 2010 BMW 120 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (376 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 207 more horse power than 2010 BMW 120. (169 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2010 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 415 kg more than 2010 BMW 120. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 370 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 BMW 120. (210 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 BMW 120. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2010 BMW 120 has manual transmission. 2010 BMW 120 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2010 BMW 120 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
Model | SL | 120 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5987 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 376 HP | 169 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6700 RPM |
Torque | 580 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1385 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4370 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1420 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1760 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2670 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 53 L |