1991 BMW Z1 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 17 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 207 more horse power than 1991 BMW Z1. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW Z1.
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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW Z1. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW Z1. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1991 BMW Z1 has manual transmission. 1991 BMW Z1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1991 BMW Z1 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Z1 | SL |
Year Released | 1991 | 2008 |
Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2497 cc | 5461 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 382 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 230 Nm | 530 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2570 mm |