2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 BMW M5
To start off, 2012 BMW M5 is newer by 7 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, 2012 BMW M5 (560 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 BMW M5. (680 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 BMW M5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 BMW M5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | SL | M5 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 560 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 680 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1892 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1455 mm |
