2005 BMW X5 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 BMW X5 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (376 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 2005 BMW X5. (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW X5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW X5 weights approximately 370 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2005 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 BMW X5 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW X5. (520 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW X5. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2005 BMW X5 has manual transmission. 2005 BMW X5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW X5 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X5 | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 5987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 376 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 520 Nm | 580 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2170 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 93 L | 80 L |
