1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2009 BMW 535
To start off, 2009 BMW 535 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2009 BMW 535. (268 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 34 kg more than 2009 BMW 535. 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, 2009 BMW 535 (560 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2009 BMW 535 has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 535 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2009 BMW 535 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | SL | 535 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4971 cc | 2991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 315 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 16.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1769 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
