2008 BMW 530 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 BMW 530 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 530 (254 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 245 kg more than 2008 BMW 530.
Because 2008 BMW 530 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW 530 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, 2008 BMW 530 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 530 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 530 | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 254 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 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 | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
