1998 BMW 316 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 316 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 404 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (106 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 705 kg more than 1998 BMW 316. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (720 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 555 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 316 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 316 | SL |
Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1895 cc | 5439 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 106 HP | 510 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 720 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 92 mm |
Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1955 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |