2008 BMW X5 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 BMW X5 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (317 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2008 BMW X5. (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 290 kg more than 2008 BMW X5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (471 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X5. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X5 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X5 | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 471 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 80 L |
