1991 BMW Z1 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1991 BMW Z1. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 75 kg more than 1991 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK (280 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW Z1. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW Z1.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW Z1 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z1 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
