1998 BMW 740 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 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 740 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 (605 HP) has 319 more horse power than 1998 BMW 740. (286 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 740. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 862 kg more than 1998 BMW 740. 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 (1,000 Nm) has 560 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 740. (440 Nm). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 740.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 740 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 740 | SL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 286 HP | 605 HP |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 1000 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1968 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 80 L |
