2008 BMW X5 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 BMW X5 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X5 (350 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (302 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5 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 336 kg more than 2008 BMW X5.
Because 2008 BMW X5 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 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, 2008 BMW X5 (475 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X5 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X5 | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4799 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 475 Nm | 461 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.5 seconds | 6.5 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 | 1554 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 12.4 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 16.8 L/100km | 17.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.5 L/100km | 12.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 80 L |
