2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 BMW 318
To start off, 2012 BMW 318 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 353 kg more than 2012 BMW 318.
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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 BMW 318. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 BMW 318. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2012 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2012 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 BMW 318 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
Model | SL | 318 |
Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 0 HP | 143 HP |
Torque | 460 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 9.1 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1848 kg | 1495 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4624 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1811 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1429 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2810 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 57 L |