2008 BMW 525 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 525 would be higher. At 5,512 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 295 more horse power than 2008 BMW 525. (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 400 kg more than 2008 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 525 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW 525 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 580 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 525. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 525. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 525 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 525 | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 5512 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 830 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 4.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.9 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
