1999 BMW 330 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1999 BMW 330 is newer by 1 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (349 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1999 BMW 330. (184 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 125 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 1998 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 330. (400 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 330. 1998 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. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1999 BMW 330 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 330 | SL |
Year Released | 1999 | 1998 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2979 cc | 5439 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 184 HP | 349 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 530 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 1820 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 | 63 L | 80 L |