2004 BMW X3 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 BMW X3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (349 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 2004 BMW X3. (225 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW X3 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2004 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW X3. (290 Nm). This means 1998 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 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2925 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 349 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1825 kg | 1820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 9.4 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.8 L/100km | 18.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 12.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 80 L |
