2009 BMW 328 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 BMW 328 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2009 BMW 328. (231 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 328.
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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 328. (271 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 328.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 328 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 328 | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 4971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 231 HP | 315 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 468 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
