1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 BMW 520
To start off, 2011 BMW 520 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 42 more horse power than 2011 BMW 520. (182 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2011 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 40 kg more than 2011 BMW 520. 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 (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW 520. (270 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 BMW 520 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
Model | SL | 520 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3197 cc | 1997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 224 HP | 182 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 315 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 90.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
Top Speed | 238 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1790 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4907 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1462 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2968 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |