2008 BMW 325 vs. 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 BMW 325 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2008 BMW 325. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 115 kg more than 2008 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 325 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW 325 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, 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 325. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 325 | 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 325 | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
