1998 BMW V12 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 8 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (605 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1998 BMW V12. (570 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW V12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW V12 weights approximately 14 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,001 Nm) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW V12. (909 Nm). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW V12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW V12 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | V12 | SL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 6000 cc | 5982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 570 HP | 605 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 909 Nm | 1001 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1614 kg | 1600 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2570 mm |
