1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2006 BMW 525
To start off, 2006 BMW 525 is newer by 8 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 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2006 BMW 525 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, 2006 BMW 525 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 (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 525. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2006 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | SL | 525 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.8 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
