1998 BMW 317 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 317 would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 515 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 595 kg more than 1998 BMW 317. 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 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,001 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 811 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 317. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 317 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 317 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 317 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 317 | SL |
Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1665 cc | 5980 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 604 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 1001 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |