1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 BMW 123
To start off, 2011 BMW 123 is newer by 13 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 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (224 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2011 BMW 123. (202 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2011 BMW 123. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 345 kg more than 2011 BMW 123. 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, 2011 BMW 123 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 123 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 BMW 123 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | SL | 123 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3197 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 224 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1421 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 51 L |
