1986 BMW Z1 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (409 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 238 more horse power than 1986 BMW Z1. (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 612 kg more than 1986 BMW Z1. 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (540 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 318 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW Z1. (222 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW Z1.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW Z1 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z1 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 8 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 409 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 12.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 224 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 998 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4146 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 2006 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2430 mm |
