2007 BMW 328 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL

To start off, 2007 BMW 328 is newer by 11 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 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (376 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 2007 BMW 328. (230 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2007 BMW 328.

Because 2007 BMW 328 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 BMW 328 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 309 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 BMW 328. (271 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 BMW 328. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2007 BMW 328 has manual transmission. 2007 BMW 328 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2007 BMW 328 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
Make BMW Mercedes-Benz
Model 328 SL
Year Released 2007 1996
Body Type Station Wagon Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2996 cc 5987 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 12 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 230 HP 376 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 271 Nm 580 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 3750 RPM
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Length 4530 mm 4470 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1300 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 61 L 80 L