1999 BMW X5 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1999 BMW X5 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1999 BMW X5. (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW X5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW X5 weights approximately 294 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1999 BMW X5 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 X5 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 (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW X5. (439 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW X5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW X5 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X5 | SL |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 439 Nm | 461 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2184 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.1 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 18.8 L/100km | 17.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.9 L/100km | 12.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 93 L | 80 L |
