2006 BMW X5 vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 BMW X5 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 228 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 60 kg more than 2006 BMW X5.
Because 2006 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 BMW X5 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2006 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW X5 | 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X5 | SL |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 93 L | 80 L |
