1998 BMW 320 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (170 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 345 kg more than 1998 BMW 320. 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 320 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 320 | SL |
Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2169 cc | 4966 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 460 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 84 mm |
Top Speed | 224 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1845 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 |