1998 BMW 730 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 730 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (311 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1998 BMW 730. (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 730.
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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (360 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 730. (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 730. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 730 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 730 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 730 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 730 | SL |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2793 cc | 3498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 190 HP | 311 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 360 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
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 | 5130 mm | 4582 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1298 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2560 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |