2007 BMW X3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 BMW X3 would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 303 more horse power than 2007 BMW X3. (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2007 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 174 kg more than 2007 BMW X3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (630 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 BMW X3. (480 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | SL |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 4.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4592 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 80 L |
