2005 BMW X3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 BMW X3 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (269 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 2005 BMW X3. (184 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW X3 weights approximately 100 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2005 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 BMW X3 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, 2005 BMW X3 (420 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW X3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2977 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 269 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 1825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 10.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 80 L |
