2004 BMW X5 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW X5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW X5 would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2004 BMW X5. (355 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW X5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW X5 weights approximately 370 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2004 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW X5. (500 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW X5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW X5 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X5 | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4799 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 355 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.1 seconds | 5.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2275 kg | 1905 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 10.5 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 18.7 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 93 L | 80 L |
