1999 BMW V12 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1999 BMW V12 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 5,990 cc (12 cylinders), 1999 BMW V12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW V12 (550 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. (376 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW V12 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 170 kg more than 1999 BMW V12.
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, 1999 BMW V12 (909 Nm) has 329 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. (580 Nm). This means 1999 BMW V12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW V12 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | V12 | SL |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 5990 cc | 5987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 550 HP | 376 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 909 Nm | 580 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1800 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2520 mm |
