2006 BMW X5 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 BMW X5 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 266 more horse power than 2006 BMW X5. (227 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW X5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW X5 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2006 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 510 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW X5. (290 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW X5. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW X5 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW X5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW X5 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X5 | SL |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2978 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2070 kg | 2025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.7 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 93 L | 80 L |
