2007 BMW X3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2007 BMW X3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 2007 BMW X3. (229 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2007 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW X3 weights approximately 330 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2007 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 BMW X3 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 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 BMW X3. (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW X3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | SL |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.1 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 9.4 L/100km | 10 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.1 L/100km | 12.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 80 L |
