2008 BMW 325 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 325 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (311 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 2008 BMW 325. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 325.
Because 2008 BMW 325 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (360 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 325. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 325. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 325 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 325 | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 6.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
