2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 BMW 530
To start off, 2008 BMW 530 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 239 more horse power than 2008 BMW 530. (254 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 530. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 256 kg more than 2008 BMW 530. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 530 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW 530 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 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm) has 400 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 530. (300 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 530.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2008 BMW 530 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | SL | 530 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 2995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 254 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1921 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.8 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.7 L/100km | 9.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
