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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2007 BMW X3. (149 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2007 BMW X3.
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, 2007 BMW X3 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL. (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2007 BMW X3 has manual transmission. 2007 BMW X3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 1995 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 80 L |
