1998 BMW V12 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW V12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW V12 would be higher. At 6,000 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 BMW V12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW V12 (570 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 268 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. (302 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW V12 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 266 kg more than 1998 BMW V12.
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, 1998 BMW V12 (909 Nm) has 449 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. (460 Nm). This means 1998 BMW V12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW V12 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | V12 | SL |
Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 6000 cc | 4966 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 570 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 909 Nm | 460 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 1 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1614 kg | 1880 kg |
Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2570 mm |