2005 BMW 320 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 BMW 320 is newer by 7 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 2,798 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2005 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 385 kg more than 2005 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW 320. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW 320. 2005 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2005 BMW 320 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 320 | SL |
Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2798 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 204 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 200 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 73.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.1:1 |
Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 232 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |