2009 BMW 525 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 BMW 525 is newer by 11 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 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (224 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2009 BMW 525. (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 265 kg more than 2009 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 525 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, 2009 BMW 525 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 525. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 525. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 525 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 525 | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 224 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.8 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 237 km/hour | 238 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
