1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 BMW X3
To start off, 2011 BMW X3 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, 2011 BMW X3 (240 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (224 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW X3 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 BMW X3 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 (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW X3. (299 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | SL | X3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3197 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 224 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4648 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1661 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2807 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 67 L |
