1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (494 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 293 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 620 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 425 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z3 | SL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 494 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 62 L |
