2011 BMW X3 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 BMW X3 is newer by 14 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 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2011 BMW X3. (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2011 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW X3 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2011 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 BMW X3 (380 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2011 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 BMW X3 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | SL |
| Year Released | 2011 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1790 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4648 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1881 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1675 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 80 L |
