1999 BMW X5 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 X5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW X5 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 303 more horse power than 1999 BMW X5. (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW X5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 10 kg more than 1999 BMW X5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 419 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW X5. (281 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW X5. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1999 BMW X5 has manual transmission. 1999 BMW X5 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 X5 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X5 | SL |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1970 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 80 L |
