2005 BMW X5 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL

To start off, 2005 BMW X5 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 278 more horse power than 2005 BMW X5. (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 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 145 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL.

Because 2005 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW X5. (520 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW X5. 2003 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2005 BMW X5 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL
Make BMW Mercedes-Benz
Model X5 SL
Year Released 2005 2003
Body Type SUV Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2926 cc 5513 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 12 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 3 valves
Horse Power 215 HP 493 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 520 Nm 800 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 1800 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 18.0:1 9.0:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline - Premium
Top Speed 210 km/hour 250 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 8.3 seconds 4.7 seconds
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 2025 kg
Vehicle Length 4670 mm 4540 mm
Vehicle Width 1880 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1720 mm 1300 mm
Wheelbase Size 2830 mm 2570 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 8.6 L/100km 14.7 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 93 L 80 L