2004 BMW X3 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 BMW X3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,956 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (375 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 2004 BMW X3. (184 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 232 kg more than 2004 BMW X3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 BMW X3 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (580 Nm) has 343 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW X3. (237 Nm). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW X3 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2491 cc | 5956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 375 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 580 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 94.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1818 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 9.8 L/100km | 11.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.8 L/100km | 16.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 80 L |
