2006 BMW 130 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 BMW 130 is newer by 10 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 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (317 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2006 BMW 130. (261 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 130.
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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (471 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 130. (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 130.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 130 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 130 | SL |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 471 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 80 L |
