1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 13 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 463 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 320 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,001 Nm) has 821 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z3 | SL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 604 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 1001 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 300 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
