2008 BMW X5 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 BMW X5 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X5 (328 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. (302 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X5 weights approximately 286 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X5. (440 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2003 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 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X5 | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 4966 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 229 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.7 seconds | 6.3 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 | 1905 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 80 L |
