1999 BMW 323 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 323 would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1999 BMW 323. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1373 kg more than 1999 BMW 323. 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 285 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 323 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | SL |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1457 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
