2003 BMW X5 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW X5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW X5 would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 2003 BMW X5. (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW X5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 650 kg more than 2003 BMW X5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW X5. (500 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW X5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X5 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X5 | SL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2180 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12 L/100km | 18.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 93 L | 80 L |
