2002 BMW 330 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2002 BMW 330 is newer by 4 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 7,291 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 5550 RPM) has 325 more horse power than 2002 BMW 330. (193 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2002 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 420 kg more than 2002 BMW 330. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (766 Nm) has 529 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW 330. (237 Nm). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW 330. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2002 BMW 330 has manual transmission. 2002 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:
| 2002 BMW 330 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 330 | SL |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 7291 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5550 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 766 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2520 mm |
