1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 BMW 535
To start off, 2012 BMW 535 is newer by 14 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, 2012 BMW 535 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (224 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 535 weights approximately 305 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 2012 BMW 535 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, 2012 BMW 535 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, 2012 BMW 535 (406 Nm @ 1200 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 535 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 | 2012 BMW 535 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | SL | 535 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3197 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 224 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 406 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| 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 | 2135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4999 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3071 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
