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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X5 weights approximately 301 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X5. (440 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1998 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 | 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 | 4398 cc | 4966 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 302 HP |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 461 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.7 seconds | 6.5 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 | 2191 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 15.4 L/100km | 12.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 80 L |
