2008 BMW 330 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 BMW 330 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,513 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 239 more horse power than 2008 BMW 330. (254 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 243 kg more than 2008 BMW 330. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW 330 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm) has 400 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 330. (300 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 330.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 330 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 330 | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 254 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1716 kg | 1959 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 91 L |
