1992 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 BMW Z4
To start off, 2011 BMW Z4 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW Z4 (335 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL. (231 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 80 kg more than 2011 BMW Z4.
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, 2011 BMW Z4 (450 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL. (268 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2011 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | SL | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 231 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 268 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4242 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1285 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2497 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
