1999 BMW 318 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 318 would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 1999 BMW 318. (192 HP @ 7250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 630 kg more than 1999 BMW 318. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 318. (355 Nm). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 318. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1999 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1999 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1999 BMW 318 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 318 | SL |
Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1798 cc | 5500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 192 HP | 382 HP |
Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 355 Nm | 530 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1905 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4582 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1298 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2560 mm |