2005 BMW 330 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 BMW 330 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 330 (215 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 270 kg more than 2005 BMW 330.
Let's talk about torque, 2005 BMW 330 (290 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm). This means 2005 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 330 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 330 | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2977 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
