1999 BMW 330 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1999 BMW 330 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,956 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (375 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1999 BMW 330. (183 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 430 kg more than 1999 BMW 330. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 BMW 330 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 330. (390 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 330. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1999 BMW 330 has manual transmission. 1999 BMW 330 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1999 BMW 330 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 330 | SL |
Year Released | 1999 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2977 cc | 5956 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 183 HP | 375 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 390 Nm | 580 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 100 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 94.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 2050 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 93 L | 80 L |