1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2002 BMW X5
To start off, 2002 BMW X5 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 7,291 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 5550 RPM) has 329 more horse power than 2002 BMW X5. (189 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2002 BMW X5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW X5 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2002 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 BMW X5 will offer significantly more control. 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 Mercedes-Benz SL (766 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 356 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW X5. (410 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW X5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2002 BMW X5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | SL | X5 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7291 cc | 2977 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 518 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5550 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 766 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 2170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 93 L |
