2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 BMW X3
To start off, 2012 BMW X3 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 2012 BMW X3. (300 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 125 kg more than 2012 BMW X3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 394 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 BMW X3. (406 Nm @ 1200 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | SL | X3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 406 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2040 kg | 1915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4648 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1881 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1675 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 67 L |
