2003 BMW 325 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 325 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 301 more horse power than 2003 BMW 325. (192 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 560 kg more than 2003 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 555 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 325. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 325. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 325 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 325 | SL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.1 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 2040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
