1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 BMW 550
To start off, 2012 BMW 550 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 196 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 550 weights approximately 240 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 550 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 550 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 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 339 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 550 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 550 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
Model | SL | 550 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2799 cc | 4400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 204 HP | 400 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 609 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 2050 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4899 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1464 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2968 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |