2007 BMW 320 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2007 BMW 320 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 241 more horse power than 2007 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2007 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 655 kg more than 2007 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 370 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 BMW 320. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 BMW 320. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2007 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 2007 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 320 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 320 | SL |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 5987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 389 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 80.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 5.1 seconds |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
