1999 BMW M5 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW M5 would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 203 more horse power than 1999 BMW M5. (401 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW M5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 500 kg more than 1999 BMW M5. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (998 Nm) has 499 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW M5. (499 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW M5. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1999 BMW M5 has manual transmission. 1999 BMW M5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW M5 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M5 | SL |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4900 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 401 HP | 604 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 499 Nm | 998 Nm |
| Top Speed | 295 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 2110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
