2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 BMW 328
To start off, 2012 BMW 328 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2012 BMW 328. (230 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 328. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 223 kg more than 2012 BMW 328. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW 328 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW 328 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 BMW 328. (271 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 BMW 328.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 BMW 328 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | SL | 328 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1848 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4536 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.2 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 57 L |
