1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 BMW 118
To start off, 2011 BMW 118 is newer by 14 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 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2011 BMW 118. (143 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2011 BMW 118. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 210 kg more than 2011 BMW 118. 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, 2011 BMW 118 (300 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 118 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 BMW 118 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
Model | SL | 118 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 190 HP | 143 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1550 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4360 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1748 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1411 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2660 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 51 L |