2003 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 BMW X6
To start off, 2011 BMW X6 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW X6 (555 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW X6 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW X6 weights approximately 460 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW X6 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 X6 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 (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW X6. (677 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW X6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 BMW X6 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | SL | X6 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 555 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 677 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 2415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4877 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1984 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1684 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2934 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 85 L |
