2008 BMW 550 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 BMW 550 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 2008 BMW 550. (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 550. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 295 kg more than 2008 BMW 550. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 550. (490 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 550.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW 550 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 550 | SL |
Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4799 cc | 5439 cc |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 360 HP | 493 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 490 Nm | 700 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2750 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1955 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.1 L/100km | 13.5 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |