2008 BMW X3 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 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 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (228 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 285 kg more than 2008 BMW X3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X3 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 X3 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (480 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 5987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 389 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 80.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 5.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 80 L |
