2008 BMW 320 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 320 would be higher. At 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS (563 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 402 more horse power than 2008 BMW 320. (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS weights approximately 231 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS (649 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 319 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 320. (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 320. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 320 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 320 | SLS |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 563 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 649 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 3.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1661 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4638 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1938 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 85 L |
