2008 BMW 320 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL

To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (494 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 333 more horse power than 2008 BMW 320. (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 385 kg more than 2008 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 370 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 320. (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 320.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 320 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL
Make BMW Mercedes-Benz
Model 320 SL
Year Released 2008 2002
Body Type Sedan Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1994 cc 5441 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 3 valves
Horse Power 161 HP 494 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6100 RPM
Torque 330 Nm 700 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 2650 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 97 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 92 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 17.0:1 9.0:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1490 kg 1875 kg
Vehicle Length 4620 mm 4540 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1300 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2570 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 62 L


 

More Comparisons

Resources

Replacing Your Front Disc Brakes Made Simple: The Definitive DIY Guide
Replace the front disc brakes of your vehicle and save money on labour cost. Read this guide to learn how. [read more]
What to look for when buying a used/second hand car.
Diligence through every step of the buying process will help you find a reliable used car and avoid any unpleasant surprises. [read more]
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Perform an Oil Change on Your Car
One of the most effective ways of saving money on car maintenance is to change the oil yourself. [read more]