1989 BMW Z1 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (201 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1989 BMW Z1. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1989 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 250 kg more than 1989 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW Z1. (231 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW Z1. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1989 BMW Z1 has manual transmission. 1989 BMW Z1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1989 BMW Z1 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Z1 | SLK |
Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 201 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 231 Nm | 310 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1500 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4135 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1816 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2431 mm |