2003 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 BMW 535
To start off, 2011 BMW 535 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 2011 BMW 535. (300 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2011 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 105 kg more than 2011 BMW 535. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW 535 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 BMW 535 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 394 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW 535. (406 Nm @ 1200 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW 535.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 BMW 535 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | SL | 535 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 406 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2025 kg | 1920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4905 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1463 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2969 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
