1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 BMW 318
To start off, 2008 BMW 318 is newer by 10 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2008 BMW 318. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 230 kg more than 2008 BMW 318. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2008 BMW 318 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
Model | SL | 318 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1993 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 204 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 200 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.5:1 |
Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 207 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.8 seconds | 10.3 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1580 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 63 L |