1998 BMW 316 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 12 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (311 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 208 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (103 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316.
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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (360 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316. 2010 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. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 316 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 316 | SL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.4 seconds | 6.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
