2009 BMW X3 vs. 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,306 cc (6 cylinders), 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL (149 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2009 BMW X3. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW X3 weights approximately 356 kg more than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2009 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 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, 2009 BMW X3 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. (196 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X3 | 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1966 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2306 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1656 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 52 L |
