2009 BMW X3 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,437 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (469 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 280 more horse power than 2009 BMW X3. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 140 kg more than 2009 BMW X3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 455 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X3 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 5437 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 469 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.9 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 80 L |
