2005 BMW M3 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 BMW M3 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 3,244 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW M3 (320 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 120 kg more than 2005 BMW M3.
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, 2005 BMW M3 (337 Nm) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm). This means 2005 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
2005 BMW M3 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | SL |
Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3244 cc | 2799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 320 HP | 204 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 337 Nm | 270 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 73.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.1:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |