2008 BMW M5 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW M5 would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (661 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 2008 BMW M5. (500 HP @ 7750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW M5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M5 weights approximately 390 kg more than 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2008 BMW M5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW M5 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,000 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 481 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW M5. (519 Nm @ 6100 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW M5. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW M5 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW M5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M5 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M5 | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4999 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 500 HP | 661 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7750 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 519 Nm | 1000 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6100 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 320 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
