2009 BMW M5 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 BMW M5 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M5 (500 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. (376 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M5 weights approximately 155 kg more than 1996 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW M5. (520 Nm @ 6100 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW M5. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW M5 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW M5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW M5 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M5 | SL |
Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4999 cc | 5987 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 500 HP | 376 HP |
Engine RPM | 7750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 520 Nm | 580 Nm |
Torque RPM | 6100 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1800 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |